Scottish Dementia Working Group - Run by people with dementia

Have you been diagnosed with dementia?

In Highland 2,900 people have dementia. It is most common in older people but can affect people in their 40s, 50s or even younger. Dementia affects people from all walks of life

Are you interested in meeting others in Highland with this condition?

• We are a small friendly group of people with a diagnosis of dementia
• We meet once a month in Inverness

for support and sharing of our experience of living with dementia

we also work to raise awareness and improve dementia services

• We want to speak for ourselves about the things we feel are important – to make a difference
• Members of the group learn from each other
• Your experience is important in trying to influence the provision of appropriate services

So…who will listen?

Now is a good time to be speaking out – people really do want to listen!

Change happens when those who do not usually speak are heard by those who do not usually listen
– John O’Brien

NHS, Local Authorities, Alzheimer Scotland and others have a duty to consult with the people using their services and to hear their views. They are each looking at ways to involve people with dementia in policy development and planning of services.

Together we can try to:

• Influence people who plan and deliver services
• Influence relevant policy
• Influence and change attitudes about people with dementia

Ensure your voice is heard directly – it is the voice of experience

Why not join our Inverness Dementia Group now to:

• Meet others with a dementia diagnosis and have the chance to socialise
• Share your views and experiences
• Be available for consultation
• Campaign for better services
• Encourage more positive attitudes about people with dementia

• The group is open to anyone who can attend meetings in Inverness
• You can choose how active you wish to be