Lottery cash goes to help raise awareness of dementia in the deaf community

Deaf Connections has scooped £385,000 lottery cash to support dementia projects across Scotland.

Deaf people with dementia and their carers will be involved as equals in the planning and delivery of the new project, which will provide bespoke services including befriending, volunteering opportunities, skilled staff, and a BSL translated accessible website.

The project will also raise awareness of dementia within the deaf community and improve existing projects and activities.

Appropriate communication, accessible information and awareness are enormous barriers for deaf people - Jane Worrall

Jane Worrall, chief executive of Deaf Connections, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this funding in recognition of the particular needs experienced by deaf people affected by dementia.

“Appropriate communication, accessible information and awareness are enormous barriers for deaf people.

“We are excited to be given the opportunity to create a dementia friendly deaf community where understanding, acceptance and empathy can ensure that those affected by dementia remain supported to lead fulfilling lives and continue to be active and included members of their community.”

Funding has come from the Life Changes Trust, an independent charity set up with a Big Lottery Fund endowment of £50 million to improve the lives of two key groups in Scotland: people affected by dementia and care experienced young people.

The trust will be investing £3 million in 14 different dementia friendly communities over the next three years.

Anna Buchanan, director of the Life Changes Trust dementia programme, said: “Minority groups can sometimes be overlooked when we think about dementia and how it affects people.

“This is why it’s so important that our funding reaches this type of initiative - deaf people affected by dementia can continue to live well, staying included and empowered in their communities.”