Event will celebrate projects which improve the lives of people affected by the condition

People with dementia are hosting a conference about the condition in a groundbreaking first for Scotland.

The event will showcase the work of 13 dementia friendly communities from across the country.

From dementia friendly theatre projects and art therapy to walking football and sporting memories, the conference will celebrate the work and achievements of communities built to ensure the inclusion and empowerment of people affected by dementia.

It will also provide a platform for attendees to share learning and expertise on the condition.

This is a fantastic opportunity for the dementia community to really demonstrate the benefits of creating places that empower and include people

The conference is being held by Scottish charity the Life Changes Trust, which has invested around £3 million in establishing and supporting dementia friendly communities across Scotland.

Dementia campaigner Agnes Houston, who will co-chair the conference, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the dementia community to really demonstrate, from first-hand experience, the benefits of creating places that empower and include people who are affected by dementia - both those who are living with the condition and those who care for them.

“I am encouraged to witness - and be part of - this changing shift in how people think about and approach dementia, showing how we can all help support each other.”

Anna Buchanan, director of the Life Changes Trust dementia programme, added: “As a funder, we consider it a privilege to work with all of these dementia friendly communities, whose work is driven by passion, sustained by commitment, and is creating better lives for many people across Scotland.

“These projects really are examples of community in action.”

The conference takes place at the Perth Concert Hall on World Alzheimer’s Day, 21 September.