Thurrock Dementia Action Alliance
Background:
Thurrock is part of the London commuter belt and is an area of regeneration within the Thames Gateway redevelopment zone. The local authority is Thurrock Council.
ONS estimates Thurrock’s population to be 178,300 in the 2021 census. Covering an area of 64 square miles, the key population towns are Corringham, Stanford-le-Hope, Tilbury, Grays and Purfleet yet Thurrock is 70% greenbelt with rural villages such as Bulphan, Orsett and Horndon on the Hill.
Thurrock is renowned for mineral extraction. When chalk extraction ceased, one of the disused pits was redeveloped as Lakeside Shopping Centre.
Thurrock Dementia Action Alliance (TDAA) was established in 2013. It sees individuals and organisations come together that are truly committed to improving the health and social care outcomes for those affected by dementia.
TDAA continues to develop and with the support and commitment of its members, they are working towards receiving a Dementia Friendly Community status for Thurrock.
Aims:
- To meet the needs of those living with a dementia and their carers, companions and families within Thurrock knowing they can live their lives with access to the services and support they need to fully participate in community life.
- To promote and sign-up individuals and organisations across the district to become Dementia Friends offering either the calendar of virtual information session or bespoke sessions to groups.
- Support and encourage the good work already taking place in the district and ensure those who are interested in developing their contribution towards a dementia friendly community are backed by the alliance and offered the opportunity to be a member.
- Develop a team of Dementia Friends Champions to be able to deliver Dementia Friends Information Sessions and take on an ambassador role within the community.
- Create and support local events and activities for those living with dementia and their carers and companions.
- Share useful information relating to dementia support, activities, training and events with alliance members and each to share within their own networks.
- Develop an intergenerational focus within the district linking care homes, schools, businesses, services and community members.
- Campaign on the major issues in health and social care relating to people with dementia and their carers and companions.
- Shape what we do, highlighting the issues that are important to people affected by dementia.
- Ensure each member continues their commitment stated in their action plans.
Achievements:
- Created a steering group in 2019 to establish the TDDAA
- Chair and Deputy Chair were elected in November 2020
Meetings:
Throughout the Pandemic, virtual meetings are held every 6-8 weeks with members and partners.
To join Thurrock Dementia Action Alliance (TDAA) or for more information contact:
Pradip Mistry
Chair, Thurrock DAA
pradip@lifesmistry.co.uk