Council launches dementia safeguarding scheme

AS part of its ongoing Age Friendly work, Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council has launched a new Dementia Safeguarding Scheme aimed at improving the safety and wellbeing of residents living with dementia.

The initiative supports the Council’s commitment to becoming both a Dementia Friendly Council and a Dementia Friendly Borough, ensuring that Antrim and Newtownabbey remains a welcoming and inclusive community for everyone.

There are currently over 20,000 people living with dementia across Northern Ireland, and according to Age UK, this number could rise to 60,000 by 2050.

Recognising the importance of supporting these individuals and their caregivers, the council has partnered with local organisations and statutory partners to provide specially designed wristbands and hang tags containing essential personalised emergency details.

These devices are equipped with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology.

Vital information

This allows first responders or members of the public to quickly access the wearer’s vital information in an emergency using their mobile phones, helping reunite them with loved ones and ensuring their safety.

The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Leah Kirkpatrick, has warmly welcomed the step.

“We’re proud to take another important step towards becoming a Dementia Friendly Borough,” she said.

“The Dementia Safeguarding Scheme offers reassurance for families and caregivers, while giving individuals living with dementia greater independence and security in their daily lives.”

Further details and short videos explaining how the scheme works are available on the council’s website.