Dementia Forward is a small North Yorkshire charity supporting people with dementia and their families.
This year they were delighted that their team of nearly 200 volunteers was awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service—the highest award for voluntary groups.
Representatives of Dementia Forward will receive the award crystal and certificate from Mrs Johanna Ropner, Lord-Lieutenant of North Yorkshire, later this summer. In the meantime, the volunteers have all been presented with a commemorative badge.
Debby Lennox, Community Liaison, said: “Everyone has been so proud to learn about the award, and receive their badges. It is testament to the dedication and hard work of our volunteers, who have supported Dementia Forward from the very beginning, just 9 years ago.”
In those 9 years, the charity, which began with a team of 7 in the Harrogate District, has grown to cover all of North Yorkshire and York, and now supports over 4,000 people across the county.
The team are now keen to ensure that everyone is aware of the support they offer, and also to explore ways to raise funds so that they can continue their vital work. With this in mind, they are looking for enthusiastic local people who can offer support with fundraising and awareness-raising activities as a Friend of Dementia Forward.
If you would be interested in using your skills, experience and local knowledge to support their work, they would love to hear from you, please email info@dementiaforward.org.uk or call Debby on 07763 558957.
The Dementia Forward Helpline (03300 578592) is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm for free, confidential advice and support.