A CAMPAIGN to ensure people living with dementia in Wiltshire are treated with understanding and support is being launched across the county.

In Wiltshire, there are currently 6,512 people living with dementia and that figure is forecast to grow by almost 30 percent by 2020.

Wiltshire Council’s Before I Forget campaign aims to ensure those with dementia, those who care for them and their families are treated as individuals, and are able to access the right care and support, at the right time.

An information pack and toolkit has been produced to support area boards as they work to become dementia aware and dementia friendly. The pack includes a ‘how to’ booklet with useful information and guidance.

The campaign begins as council leaders consider feedback on a draft Wiltshire Dementia Strategy detailing how Wiltshire organisations can work together to support people with dementia and their carers and families over the next seven years.

Almost 100 individuals and groups commented during the three-month consultation on the strategy, which has been drawn up by Wiltshire Council and NHS Wiltshire Clinical Commissioning Group to help deliver care in the future.

Maggie Rae, corporate director, said: “Everyone needs to play a part in making our county a good place to live if you have dementia. These responses show people care and have taken time to let us know their views and we can now take these on and ensure we have a clear direction which will help deliver key support in the future.”

Council leaders at a recent Cabinet meeting were asked to note the feedback and how this will help shape the Wiltshire Dementia Strategy. The updated strategy and action plan will be presented for formal approval at a future Cabinet meeting.