Home Counties Carers are intent on supporting the community in as many ways as possible, from volunteering at local social events to health promotion.

Dementia awareness & training for the community

The county of Surrey has the largest and fastest growing population of over 85’s in the whole of the UK. Whilst dementia isn’t ageist it is a fact that those who are 85 years and over are more likely to suffer from dementia than those aged below 85.

Awareness of dementia is growing all the time but there is still a significant way to go before the subject is less taboo than it is today. Recent initiatives by the Government are certainly helping and Surrey County Council is currently running a campaign called “Dementia Friendly Communities” which aims to raise the public profile of dementia so that the public in their local communities can be more understanding and supportive of those affected by dementia.

“I am passionate about good quality care and understanding for both people with dementia and for their carers, be they family carers or professional carers.”

Charlotte Drew

As part of our efforts to raise awareness of dementia in the community Home Counties Carers have held four dementia awareness training sessions at the West Clandon British Legion for anyone to attend. The sessions are presented by the informative, charming and professional Charlotte Drew, an independent dementia care trainer and advisor.

Charlotte has worked in residential care for the elderly for over 25 years and for 20 of those was a Matron/Manger. Many of the homes that she managed specialised in supporting and caring for people suffering from dementia.

For the past seven years Charlotte has worked as an outreach worker with The Alzheimer’s Society, during which time she qualified as a Dementia Care Trainer through their comprehensive and thorough training program.

Currently Charlotte is a freelance dementia care trainer and advisor working with individuals, families, home care providers, Care Homes, GP Practices and hospitals. Her extensive knowledge combined with her calm, caring, friendly and captivating personality makes her one of the most sought after dementia specialists in Surrey.

So far the dementia awareness sessions have attracted a number of our Clients, District Nurses and Carers and we are keen to get more people to join us. They are free to attend, refreshments are included and Home Counties Carers will be holding other similar session through the year so please get in touch if you are interested in attending.