Nationwide branches to host Dementia UK clinics in February

A series of free clinics, delivered by Dementia UK, will take place at Nationwide in Salisbury next month, offering specialist advice in a private and supportive setting for people to talk about any aspect of dementia.

The sessions will run at the Salisbury branch on February 10, 11 and 12.

Sarah Cooper, an admiral nurse at Dementia UK, said: “We’re looking forward to returning to Wiltshire to offer support and advice to families affected by dementia in the area.

“Our clinic programme, in partnership with Nationwide Building Society, has now been running for over a year, which has enabled us to reach thousands of people across the country who need the support of a dementia specialist Admiral Nurse.”

Admiral nurses will be on hand to offer practical and emotional advice on dementia, from worries about symptoms and help with getting a diagnosis, to understanding how the condition may progress.

Nationwide will hold dementia sessions (Image: Nationwide)

Dementia UK has also shared some of the most common signs and symptoms to watch out for—reminding the public that while dementia is often linked with memory loss, the initial symptoms may not always involve memory.

Symptoms can include increased forgetfulness, difficulties with decision-making, disorientation, communication problems, changes in behaviour, and personality changes.

If you are worried about signs of dementia in yourself or a loved one, it is vital to speak to a GP at the earliest opportunity.

The clinics are part of Nationwide’s Fairer Futures initiative, which addresses key social issues through charity partnerships.

Nationwide is funding 30 Admiral Nurses and hosting clinics at 200 branches nationwide.

Charlotte Kensett, director of customer experience and social impact for Nationwide, said: “Dementia impacts millions of families and that’s why we’re incredibly proud to have brought life-changing support into 200 of our branches and helped more than 30,000 people through our partnership with Dementia UK.

“As a mutual, we believe we have a role to play in strengthening the communities we serve and supporting those most in need.

“Through our social impact strategy, Nationwide Fairer Futures, we’re committed to changing hundreds of thousands of lives for the better.”

To book a confidential and in-person appointment with an admiral nurse, visit dementiauk.org/nationwide/?misc=media.