The borough of Hounslow has been awarded Dementia Friendly Community status by The Alzheimer's Society.

A Dementia Friendly Community is a place that creates an environment where people living with dementia can contribute to community life.

The NHS estimates that there are more than 2,000 people over 65 living with dementia in Hounslow, it is anticipated that it could reach 3,000 by 2030.

Hounslow joins 433 communities across the country who have earned the Dementia Friendly title.

The award citation says that Hounslow Council and its partners are working to: "empower people with dementia to have high aspirations, confident in the knowledge that they can contribute and participate in activities that are meaningful to them."

This year, health care partners across the borough, joined with businesses and residents within the community to create the Dementia Action Alliance.

The alliance ensures that people living with dementia and their carers are understood, respected and supported. It also works with people living with dementia and their carers to understand how services for them can be improved.

Hounslow Council's Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Transformation, Councillor Samia Chaudhary, welcomes the award but believes that the councils work with the Dementia community does not stop here.

"Achieving Dementia Friendly Community status is a tribute to all those people who have paved the way for it with their compassion, dedication, understanding and unity.

"However, we are not complacent and we see Dementia Friendly Community status are the start of our journey, not the finishing point. We know there is much more to be done and we will continue to work together to provide the very best support for those people within our community who need it most."

Kate Sergeant, Service Manager for The Alzheimer's Society in Hounslow added that through "collaboration" with the community they can continue to raise awareness about those living with Dementia.

"Creating a Dementia Friendly Community requires dedication and collaboration from all the partners within our borough. By raising awareness, providing education, and providing services that are tailored to people's needs, we are creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for those living with dementia and their carers.

"Receiving the status is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. We will keep looking for ways to improve the help and support available for people affected by the disease."

For more information about support for people living with dementia in Hounslow, click here.