Cumbria’s Mountain Rescue teams are set to receive vital training from a dementia charity, with help from The Cumberland.
Dignity in Dementia will deliver training via video to each of the 12 rescue teams across the county, as the charity continues to explore new and innovative ways to deliver their usual support.
Lesley Gill, director of Dignity in Dementia, said: “Due to the Covid-19 situation, we needed to change the way we operate.
“We are offering telephone support to families affected by dementia. Additionally we are delighted to be delivering training via video to Cumbria’s 12 Mountain Rescue teams so that their members feel more confident when called out to search for, or help someone with dementia.
“We are very grateful to The Cumberland for covering the costs of this training.”
The Cumberland pledged to help the charity with a £60,000 donation late last year as they looked to expand their work into West Cumbria. Due to the coronavirus impact, they are utilising a portion of that funding to tailor the work they do to offer more virtual support across the region.
Phillip Hall, from Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team, said: “Cumbria’s Mountain Rescue teams deal with people with many different needs, both on and off the mountains, including some with dementia.
“We may be involved in a search when someone has gone missing or in an evacuation during flooding and severe weather events. Therefore it’s vital that team members have an understanding of dementia and develop skills that help them carry out their role in the most effective and empathic way, thereby reducing any stress on the individual involved and their family members.””
Becky Towns, CSR & Communications Executive at The Cumberland, said: “We’re delighted to be helping support Dignity in Dementia as they adapt how they deliver their crucial work to support those living with dementia in our local communities.”
