Torbay Council has been designated purple angel status which now means that more staff are dementia aware.

The Purple Angel logo has become a symbol for places where staff have been trained in dementia awareness in organisations throughout the country. Norman McNamara, a dementia awareness campaigner, who spearheads the campaign, has been promoting dementia awareness locally and nationally, and awarding dementia aware organisations with the Purple Angel logo.

Torbay’s Mayor, Gordon Oliver, said: “Being able to be associated with the Purple Angel campaign at Torbay Council is a great achievement. It’s important to enable our staff to be able to communicate with residents and visitors effectively and also reassure their families and carers that we are providing them with all the support they need.”

Chris Lewis, Executive Lead for Health and Wellbeing, said: “Dementia is a common condition that affects about 800,000 people in the UK. Although younger people can develop dementia, the risk of developing dementia increases as you get older, and the condition usually occurs in people over the age of 65.

“We are rolling the Purple Angel initiative out across the council and as an on-going programme we are working hard to get all staff trained to raise awareness of those with dementia – so they are able to offer advice and support.

“Even if you have suspected for a while that you, or someone you love, might have dementia, the diagnosis may come as a shock. People with dementia should try to remain as independent as possible and continue to enjoy their usual activities. By being dementia aware we are helping those with dementia to retain some independence.”

Christine Schouler, Executive Lead for Adult Social Care and Older People, said: By displaying one of the iconic Purple Angels we are showing our support for dementia awareness and I am delighted we are backing this initiative. I wholeheartedly support the work Torbay Council is undertaking to make staff dementia aware. Dementia can affect the whole life of the person who has it, as well as their family.”

Nationally acclaimed dementia ambassador, Norman McNamara, pioneered the Purple Angel and founded the Torbay Dementia Action Alliance as well as Dementia Awareness Day (DAD). Norman was diagnosed with Lewys Bodies disease, a form of dementia, in 2008 when he was 50. Since then, and with the help and support of his wife Elaine, Norman has become an ambassador; speaking out and campaigning for all those who are living with dementia.