Opening people's eyes to dementia in Sussex

Kim Monery from Chichester got involved with the Purple Angel campaign, which aims to make people more aware of dementia, and how to recognise the signs of it.

She’s started by working with businesses in the area, so their staff are aware of the signs of dementia, and know how to help customers who may be sufferers.

Carol Parker from Premier Meats in Eastergate was happy to get on board, and it is the first business in the area to be awarded a Purple Angel, which is displayed on the firm’s seven vans.

“We were very happy to take part in this as we have several members of staff whose families have been effected by dementia,” said Mrs Parker.

She said her firm supplies meat to restaurants hotels and nursing homes, so her staff are regularly in contact with dementia sufferers.

The Purple Angel scheme gives the staff information on the condition and how to help people who are showing signs of dementia.

“It is quite important I think, because people with dementia should be able to live life to the full,” said Mrs Parker.

The campaign was set up by a dementia sufferer in Torbay, and it has spread worldwide, with 50 ambassadors – Mrs Monery being one.

She hopes to spread the word throughout Sussex, and will be presenting Tesco Express in St James Road, Chichester, with a Purple Angel this week.

“I work with people with dementia, so I wanted to get involved,” she said.

Her job is to take bundles of information to businesses, so they can get clued-up on dementia. When the staff have read the information and are more informed, the business gets its Purple Angel.

Any business wanting to get involved should contact Mrs Monery on [email protected]