Congratulations to our latest Dementia Friendly recognised organisations

We’re delighted to share four organisations have been recognised at our latest accreditation meeting in June.

Becoming a Dementia Friendly business or organisation shows you’re an inclusive, accepting and understanding place for people with dementia mate wareware.

Congratulations to Voice Arts which has been recognised as being Dementia Friendly accredited. We also want to congratulate St Andrew’s Village, Leslie Groves Hospital and Rest Home and Ōamaru Library which have all be recognised as Working to be Dementia Friendly.

Voice Arts Creative Director Nicola Pauling says as a unique creative space sitting at the intersection of art and health, this accreditation is an important acknowledgment on their mahi (work).

“We believe it will support people in the wider community to place their trust in our service delivery and thereby access a creative and developmental experience they may have otherwise have not been aware of,” she says.

Alzheimers NZ Dementia Friendly Advisor Dr Meg Spriggs is encouraging more organisations to get involved.

“There are some small steps that can be taken which will mean the world to people and their whānau living with dementia mate wareware in Aotearoa New Zealand.

“I encourage any organisations that are thinking about becoming Dementia Friendly to get in touch with me today – we can start the kōrero around what it may look like for you and your team!”

Here’s what some of the other organisations had to share:

St Andrew’s Village

“St. Andrew’s Village being recognised for the Alzheimers NZ Dementia Friendly Recognition Programme highlights our commitment to providing a supportive, person-centred, and caring environment for those living with dementia. We are dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of our residents with dementia, their families, and relatives.”

Director of Care Carmen Stadler-Hanekom and Quality & Risk Manager Martin Michaells

Ōamaru library

“This award means so much to the library team for their dedicated mahi and for the community – to be formally recognised for the systemic approach we have taken to enabling support for people with dementia / Alzheimer’s and their carers, is truly amazing. We are very grateful for the support of Alzheimers NZ, who have helped us consider all aspects of our operations.”

Libraries Manager Jenny Bean

Caption: St Andrew’s Village Director of Care Carmen Stadler-Hanekom and Clinical Manager Cyrene Villocillo