Terry helps with the TEXT SANTA campaign

Alzheimers Society Ambassador Terry Eccott said it was a great privilege to be asked to be a small part of ITVs Text Santa, with over one million pounds raised last year.

This Incredible figure was split between funding Dementia Support Workers across the UK, and to develop a new programme for younger people like myself (Aged 54 when diagnosed) with dementia.

Dementia Support Workers are vital in providing much needed support for people with dementia, their family members and carers. The role of a dementia support worker is to offer both the practical and emotional support that people affected by dementia may need after diagnosis. From signposting people to services and providing information about dementia, they help people affected by the condition to maintain their Independence, and improve their sense of well being, and I would just like to say thank you to my support worker Anne who has been invaluable to me and my family like so many of her colleagues who work silently but so effectively in the background across the country.

Alzheimers Society research now shows that at least 42,000 people with dementia are under the age of 65, much higher than what was previously thought.

As well as funding for dementia support workers, the money raised is being used to develop a programme specifically for younger people with dementia.

This programme will address early diagnosis, assessment and referral, access to specialist services, financial support, good employment practice, as well as education and training. (Photos courtesy of ITV Meridian)