LCCC Residents' Magazine : Winter 2024
New Dementia Safeguarding Scheme launched in Lisburn and Castlereagh
This local dementia safeguarding scheme provides specially designed wristbands and hang tags free of charge for individuals living with dementia. These devices help to support independence and improve safety of these individuals within the community.
Avon and Somerset Police pioneered this scheme which uses Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to assist if a person wearing them becomes disorientated or lost. The NFC tags are programmed with emergency contacts for the next of kin, which can be accessed quickly and securely by anyone with the tap of a smartphone.
Families and caregivers of those living with dementia can get peace of mind from the easily identifiable devices of this Dementia Safeguarding Scheme.
Councillor Alan Martin, Lisburn & Castlereagh Policing and Community Safety Partnership Chairman said: "We are proud to support this safeguarding scheme. It complements existing PSNI protocols to locate people with dementia when they go missing. By introducing these simple but effective tools, we are empowering communities to become dementia friendly and help people living with dementia to remain safe and supported by their communities.
If a person living with dementia is found in distress or confused, members of the public can easily recognise the wristbands or hang tags and take action to contact the next of kin to reunite them quickly with their family or carer.
The Dementia Safeguarding Scheme is a joint initiative between the Lisburn & Castlereagh Policing and Community Safety Partnership, Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council, and the Police Service of Northern Ireland. The wristbands and hang tags are free of charge.
For more information about the Dementia Safeguarding Scheme, how to use NFC or to register for a device, visit www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/w/dementiafriendly.