PENDLE Council is joining forces with a local organisation to offer support to people in the borough with dementia and their carers.

“Around 4,000 people in Pendle are affected by dementia - either living with dementia or caring for someone with dementia and that figure is growing,” said Pendle mayor, Councillor David Whalley, who is Pendle’s dementia champion.

Pendle’s Dementia Action Alliance is holding a free event from 2pm to 4pm this Sunday at St John’s Church Hall, opposite Colne Town Hall.

Speakers from Carers Link Lancashire and Age UK will be highlighting the support available, along with information stands from a range of organisations.

Paul Gauntlett, Pendle’s Dementia Action Alliance chairman, said: “This is a free, public event for anyone concerned about dementia, including carers and family members as well as health and social care professionals.”

“Like so many people, I have family members who live with dementia and I understand some of the issues and difficulties that people with dementia face and their families and carers,” he said.

“We’re delighted that Age UK and Carers Link Lancashire will be joining us. Both organisations provide vital support for those affected by dementia.”

Gill Dickson from Pendle Council, which helps to co-ordinate the work of the Alliance, said: “This is the second in a series of free events we’re running.

“The next will be from 6pm to 8pm on Tuesday, March 13, at St Joseph’s Community Centre, Gisburn Road, Barnoldswick, covering financial and legal advice for people affected by dementia and their families.”

“The Alliance has also created a free directory which sets out the services and support available in Pendle and which is available at all events,” said Gill.

For more information ring 01282 661361 or email pendledaa@gmail.com or find the Pendle Dementia Action Alliance on Facebook.

Paul added: “The Alliance is grateful for the tremendous support it receives from the private, voluntary and public sector and is particularly grateful to Pendle Council for helping to co-ordinate the work of the Alliance.”