Berks & Bucks FA have joined forces with Alzheimer's Society. The local partnership forms part of the wider national partnership between The FA and Alzheimer’s Society which aims to improve access to dementia support.

As an organisation, we have committed to ensuring there is a local referral route for people into support services, such as ‘Dementia Connect’ which can be accessed by anyone affected by Dementia.

Alex Pratt, Referral Lead for Berks & Bucks FA said “This is a really important partnership, which is close to my heart having experienced the effects of Dementia, and links in with our purpose of ‘Connecting People, Changing Lives’. We have a platform where hopefully we can play a part in raising awareness and supporting people to receive the support they require.”

What is Dementia Connect? 

Society’s Dementia Connect service provides personalised support to people from day one of their dementia journey. Dementia Connect is here for people with all types of dementia, with a diagnosis or pre-diagnosis.

As well as carers, family or friends of someone who has dementia. Dementia Connect provides a single point of contact – linking people to the different types of support available. For example, that could be a telephone dementia adviser, face-to-face support, Talking Point (an online community) or other local services, support groups and activities

Five things you should know about dementia 

1. Dementia is not a natural part of ageing - 900,000 people in the UK have dementia, but it doesn’t just affect older people. Over 40,000 people under 65 in the UK have what is known as early-onset dementia.

2. Dementia is caused by diseases of the brain - Diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease cause nerve cells to die, damaging the structure and chemistry of the brain. There are lots of other causes and no two types of dementia are the same.

3. It's not just about losing your memory - Someone with dementia might repeat themselves and have problems recalling things that happened recently. However other common symptoms include: difficulties concentrating, problems planning and thinking things through, struggling with familiar daily tasks, issues with language and communication, problems judging distances, mood changes and difficulties controlling emotions.

4. People can still live well with dementia - Although there is no cure for dementia, scientists and researchers are working hard to find one. Until that day comes, support and treatments are available that can help with symptoms and managing daily life.

5. Alzheimer's Society is here for anyone affected by dementia - We provide expert information and support to anyone affected by dementia.

For more information or for support with completing a referral, please contact Alex Pratt via email at Development@Berks-BucksFA.com