Actor backing city drive for better dementia awareness

Known for his roles in Emmerdale and Dinnerladies, the star is patron of Alzheimer’s Society in Bradford.

Mr Preston said: “I am delighted to support Alzheimer’s Society and the great work that it does in West Yorkshire.

“The number of people suffering from dementia is growing all the time and people need to acknowledge the illness as a serious problem for our society. It is a devastating disease that wrecks people’s lives and has a huge affect on their families.

“People with dementia and their carers face a lot of stigma and society needs to learn more about the condition and support people within our communities to carry on with their everyday activities for as long as possible. We need to help people to live well with their dementia and be accepted and supported as individuals who still have a lot to offer to society.”

It is hoped the campaign will promote living well with dementia and help to create dementia friendly environments.

Alzheimer’s Society development worker Jenny Jones said: “Bradford Alzheimer’s Society wants people with dementia to live well in the city. We also want people to be aware of the services and the support that is available to them.

“We would like places to be easier for people with dementia to access and also have a wider knowledge and understanding of the condition and the support available.”

Through the campaign voluntary and private organisations in the area will be encouraged to sign up to a dementia declaration that aims to transform the quality of life of people with dementia in Bradford.

It will urge them to make plans about how they will include and support people with dementia.

Bradford Council strategic director of adult and community services Moira Wilson said: “We know that the number of people with dementia is going up and we all need to be aware of how best to help people with dementia and their families.

“Some new services starting in the city include memory clinics and support for hospital and nursing home staff.”