ACS (the Association of Convenience Stores) is encouraging retailers to get involved in their campaign in collaboration with Alzheimer’s Society to create 25,000 Dementia Friends in the convenience sector.
The campaign coincides with ACS’ 25th anniversary and aims to create 25,000 Dementia Friends in the convenience sector to help customers, colleagues and communities affected by dementia.
Dementia is the 21st century’s biggest killer in the UK. Someone develops the condition every three minutes, but too many face it alone and without adequate support, even though two thirds of people with dementia live in their local community.
Case Study- Lincolnshire Co-op
“We had a regular customer visit our store, a woman who is living with dementia. She was particularly confused and on her own.
“I did not think that it was safe for her to leave the store, so my colleague did a fantastic job supporting her and discussed everything from the weather to holidays to gardening. He was incredibly patient and helpful and the woman seemed to really appreciate the interaction. We persuaded her to have a seat in the staff room with a cup of tea to warm her up and a slice of cake, as we knew she must have walked five miles to get to the store, until her very grateful husband arrived and drove her home.
“I think sometimes we all have to take a step away from the hustle and bustle of our day to day lives and open our eyes to what is going on around us. It should be in our nature to care for those in need – it’s what makes us human.” Lincolnshire Co-op Food Manager
ACS chief executive James Lowman said: “We are proud to be working with Alzheimer’s Society on this campaign and we’re delighted with the engagement that we’ve had so far from members.
“Becoming a Dementia Friend takes just a few minutes but equips you with the knowledge and understanding needed to better support your customers and colleagues affected by dementia and by acquiring these skills you can make a positive difference in your community for years to come.”
Colleagues can become Dementia Friends by visiting dementiafriends.org.uk/dforganisations and entering campaign code ‘ACS25’ before watching the short videos.
For more information, please visit www.acs25.org.uk
