IT’S become a key issue of concern – so it was timely that a day dedicated to raising awareness of dementia was held in Basingstoke.

The Alzheimer’s Society charity joined forces with major Basingstoke employer Eli Lilly to host the day at the Hampshire Court Hotel, and representatives from businesses, charities and council workers were invited to find out how to make their organisations more ‘dementia friendly’.

Tricia Hope, national account manager at the charity, said: “We invited some specially selected guests from the local community, including from Festival Place and Age Concern.

“Basingstoke MP Maria Miller spoke at the event, and there were talks on how people can promote awareness of dementia, including information sessions, particularly in customer-facing businesses.

“We have been working with Eli Lilly for a while, and we have had some great feedback about this event.

“It is definitely something we would consider running again.

“It is important to get the message out about dementia, and how people can support those with dementia.”

Vanessa Young, head of UK pricing, reimbursement and access at Eli Lilly, said: “Lilly are proud to be working with the Alzheimer’s Society in Basingstoke to raise awareness of dementia with local businesses, and we were pleased with the positive support from the 26 local businesses that attended the event.”

Mrs Miller said it is vital that the needs of the rapidly ageing population in Basingstoke are met.

She added: “I think, moving forward, we will need to be more aware of what we can do to help those with dementia.

“January will see the launch of the ‘dementia friendly high street’ initiative, and it was great to see such a cross section of groups getting involved at this Basingstoke event.”