Strides made in Dementia Friendly Recognition Programme

Congratulations to the organisations which have been recognised on various parts of their journey through our Dementia Friendly Recognition Programme recently. 

We’re excited to share five organisations have put in the mahi (work) and were recognised at our latest accreditation meeting in March. 

We were delighted to see Blenheim New World, Hospice Marlborough and Marlborough Council Customer Centre completed their two-year review and have been recognised as Working to be Dementia Friendly for a further two years. Well done! 

We also welcomed Elma Turner, Stoke, and Nightingale Memorial libraries (in Nelson) and Glenview and St Andrews libraries (in Hamilton) to the programme – they’ve been newly recognised as Working to be Dementia Friendly. 

Alzheimers NZ Dementia Friendly Advisor Dr Meg Spriggs is delighted so many organisations in the Marlborough region have continued their Dementia Friendly journey, and that new organisations continue to get involved.  

“Becoming a Dementia Friendly business or organisation shows you’re a safe, friendly, accepting and supportive place for people with dementia mate wareware. The dedication of these community-focused organisations will make a real difference in the lives of those living with dementia mate wareware.”  

Here’s what some of the organisations had to say: 

Marlborough District Council Customer Services Centre   

“Marlborough District Council is committed to maintaining a Dementia Friendly organisation. We are delighted to have demonstrated our ongoing commitment to and progress against the Dementia Friendly Recognition Programme standards to maintain our Working to be Dementia Friendly status for a further two years.   

“Our aim is to help customers and staff living with dementia or caring for loved ones living with dementia, to plan ahead, access council services and get help to remain independent for as long as possible.”  

Jane Robertson, Customer Service Team Leader 

Hamilton Libraries  

“For Hamilton City Libraries teams, being a Dementia Friend represents our commitment to providing exceptional services and programmes to Hamilton City library users and responsiveness to the needs of our communities. 

“We are incredibly excited for the upcoming launch of our Poipoi Mahara/Memory Care collection of books, activities, and resources, we can’t wait to share it with those living with dementia and their care partners.” 

Renee Leth, Programmes and Services Manager – West  

Nelson Public Libraries  

“We at Nelson Public Libraries are thrilled to be recognised as Working to be Dementia Friendly! This initiative aligns perfectly with our mission to be an inclusive and welcoming space for everyone in our community. 

“We’re proud of our Dementia Friendly Collection, which offers a variety of resources and materials chosen to be engaging and stimulating for people with dementia. We’re committed to providing a supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable exploring the joy of reading and lifelong learning.”  

Kate Miller, Manager, Nelson Public Libraries  

To find out more about the Dementia Friendly Recognition Programme, check out the Alzheimers NZ website. 

Caption:  The Nelson Public Libraries  Community & Heritage team with their certificate (above). The Marlborough Council Customer Centre team from the Blenheim office (below).