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World’s oldest law firm pledges to further support those living with dementia
Leading South East law firm Thomson Snell & Passmore has been recognised by The Kent Dementia Action Alliance, as officially ‘Working to Become Dementia Friendly’.
Supported by the Alzheimer’s Society, The Kent Dementia Action Alliance is a group of Kent organisations which work together to better meet the needs of people with dementia, so that they can live well within their communities.
To be recognised as ‘Working to Become Dementia Friendly’, Thomson Snell & Passmore has committed to: the dementia declaration – which helps those living with dementia to feel supported, valued and understood; becoming a supporter of its local Dementia Friendly Community; following The Dementia Engagement and Empowerment Project (DEEP) guidelines on use of language about dementia; ensuring 25% of employees become dementia friends within a year; and improvements to signage and environments.
Sarah Henwood, CEO at Thomson Snell & Passmore comments: “We’re delighted to be recognised as a ‘Working to Become Dementia Friendly’ business. As key members of the Kent community for over 450 years, we understand how important it is to support those affected by dementia, and help them feel valued and understood. I also know first-hand, from helping to care for my father – who has dementia – just how vital the work that Dementia Action Alliance does is.
“We have had numerous team members trained as dementia friends, with a view to increasing this. One of our team is also a dementia friends champion. We also worked with the Dementia Friendly Community when designing our new offices, to ensure they meet the needs of those clients living with dementia.
“We’re looking forward to continuing to work with The Kent Dementia Action Alliance to help deliver a better quality of life for people living with dementia, and their carers.
“As a firm, we have found it a hugely beneficial experience so far. More information on the process for any local organisations wishing to explore becoming recognised as a ‘Working to Become a Dementia Friendly’ can be found here https://tonbridgedfc.org.uk/dementia-friendly-businesses”
Christine Parker, Founder and Chair of the Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells Dementia Friendly Communities adds: “We aim to make the Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells areas great places to live, by ensuring the people who live and work locally are more aware and understanding of dementia. We all have a part to play in achieving this and we’re thrilled to welcome Thomson Snell & Passmore as a ‘Working to Become Dementia Friendly’ business.”