Hampshire Constabulary share this latest news. Ed
Hampshire Constabulary’s commitment to protect the most vulnerable in society includes increasing the police’s knowledge and skills to help people living with dementia.
Symptoms are caused when the brain is damaged in some way, causing difficulties in thinking, remembering, and communicating with other people.
It’s estimated at least 20,000 people and their carers are affected by dementia in Hampshire alone, and the numbers of diagnosed cases are expected to rise.
Hampshire Constabulary is now officially recognised as a dementia friendly organisation through working with the charity ‘Dementia Friendly Hampshire’.
Hampshire Constabulary dementia champion, Chief Inspector Beth Pirie said:
“We recognise that more can be done to assist our officers, staff and volunteers in spotting the signs of dementia and handling situations effectively when symptoms are having an impact on the vulnerability of someone who may be a victim of crime.
“More police officers and staff are attending information sessions in partnership with the charity ‘Dementia Friendly Hampshire’ whose expertise and experience in creating dementia friendly communities is greatly valued and appreciated.
“We are aspiring to have greater ability and confidence to help people and their families remove the stigma and misunderstandings that can surround the condition.
“Neighbourhood Policing Teams (NPTs) are in the process of receiving sessions at the moment followed by plans to provide the information to our Response and Patrol officers during the summer.
“Dementia Friendly stickers are being made available to be displayed on police vehicles used by officers and staff with additional understanding of dementia.”
This work is in keeping with our C.A.R.E values as a police force.
