A LIFE-CHANGING leaflet on vital support has been launched in Inverclyde to support people living with dementia and mark World Alzheimer's Day.

The international event, which takes place on September 21 each year, was backed by both Inverclyde Council and the Health & Social Care Partnership.

The HSCP has been at the forefront of improving care after being selected as a demonstrator for the implementation of the national dementia strategy.

Since 2019, staff have been leading the way in the redesign of community based services to support people living with dementia, and their carers.

This happens from the point of diagnosis onwards with the help of the Inverclyde Dementia Reference Group and other partner organisations, including Alzheimer Scotland and Healthcare Improvement Scotland.

To raise more awareness of the help available locally, a new pocket-sized leaflet has been produced by HSCP and the Dementia Reference Group to signpost people to services and organisations that can offer crucial support.

Councillor Robert Moran, Inverclyde’s health and social care convener, said: "World Alzheimer’s Day is an opportunity for us to highlight the support that’s available but also to shine a light on the terrific work being done locally to develop and deliver first-class dementia care.

"Although a small part of the work that’s on the go behind the scenes, this leaflet will become an important resource providing a ‘one-stop shop’ for residents to access the help and support they need.

"Key to improving dementia care is having close working relationships with people living with dementia, as well as their carers, family and friends, and partner organisations to listen to the individual and collective experiences and deliver the necessary change.

"That close collaboration is what makes Inverclyde stand out and makes us a dementia friendly place."

The leaflet includes information about community resources, such as the Alzheimer Scotland Dementia Resource Centre on Greenock's Nicol Street and Access 1st.

It is available by calling 01475 558 000 (press option 1) or it can be downloaded online at inverclyde.gov.uk/dementia