Our Dementia Friends Initiative

At Phillips Law, we know that understanding dementia creates better support for those living with it. We marked Dementia Action Week by holding Dementia Friends awareness sessions for our colleagues. These sessions empowered our team with essential knowledge and practical tools to better assist individuals living with dementia.

Sian Lias, Legal Director, arranged the training sessions in partnership with Alzheimer’s Society. Speaking about the initiative, Sian said:

“We come across a variety of people at Phillips, as well as in our personal lives. It is likely that we each know someone who is living with dementia or supporting someone who is living with dementia. By sparing some time on 20 May, we can each learn a little more about dementia and how we can provide assistance and support.”

The sessions attracted excellent attendance, and the feedback from colleagues was overwhelmingly positive.

Key messages taken away from the sessions included colleagues being more aware of the condition and how we, as professionals and as individuals, can make adaptations to support those living with dementia.

While many are impacted by the disease, both those with a diagnosis and those supporting people with a diagnosis, there is still hope. Even when memories fade, emotions remain, which is why kindness and connection continue to make such a difference.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to John Shaw, our Dementia Friends Ambassador volunteer, for giving his time and sharing his expertise on the importance of raising awareness.

Five Important Things to Know

1. Dementia is not a natural part of ageing.
2. Dementia is a form of Alzheimer’s Disease and results from diseases of the brain.
3. Dementia affects more than just memory; it also impacts thinking, communication, and the ability to manage everyday tasks.
4. People can live well with dementia.
5. There is always more to a person than a dementia diagnosis.

Changing the Way We Speak About Dementia

The word ‘dementia’ is often associated with feelings of fear, loss, and pity. These negative perceptions continue to fuel the stigma that surrounds the condition. Often, this reaction stems from a lack of understanding about what dementia is and how it affects people.

In reality, it is not a single condition. It exists on a spectrum and affects people in different ways. In the United Kingdom, around one in eleven people over the age of 65 live with dementia.

Language plays a significant role in how society views dementia. An easy way to combat stigma is to use respectful language. For example, rather than saying “a sufferer of”, it’s more appropriate to say “a person living with”. This simple change acknowledges that the individual is not defined by their condition and still has a full identity beyond it.

By fostering awareness and knowledge, we can help dispel these misconceptions and promote a more compassionate view of those living with dementia. Greater awareness has empowered many people to continue leading fulfilling and meaningful lives.

Unfortunately, stigma can sometimes cause people to delay seeking help when symptoms first appear. Yet early diagnosis is crucial. It enables individuals and their families to plan ahead, access support, and make informed legal, financial, and care decisions while they still have capacity.

Support for Those With Dementia

Spotting the early signs can make a real difference. Seeking help early gives individuals and families the chance to plan ahead, from care needs to legal and financial matters.

At Phillips Law, we offer clear guidance on lasting powers of attorney, wills and estate planning. Accessing legal advice early can bring peace of mind for the future.

Call: 01256 460830
Email: [email protected]

For further information and support, we recommend visiting:

• Alzheimer’s Society
• Dementia UK

Help and support are available, you’re not alone.