STAFF and volunteers at a vital service in Dorset are to receive specialist dementia training.

Thanks to the People’s Postcode Lottery, the Royal Voluntary Service has joined forces with award-winning dementia charity Dementia Adventure to develop an extensive training programme that will enhance its support for older people at home, in hospital and in the community.

Royal Voluntary Service staff and volunteers will complete the comprehensive training programme which explores what dementia is, what it is like to live with dementia, and how to communicate effectively with those living with dementia to improve their wellbeing.

The training programme combines video tutorials and a training manual developed by experts at Dementia Adventure with a series of short films featuring first-hand experiences from people living with dementia.

Sam Ward, director of commissioned services at Royal Voluntary Service said: “With over 20,000 volunteers, Royal Voluntary Service is one of the largest volunteer organisations in the country. We want to ensure that our staff understand and are equipped to help people live well with dementia.

"Thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery, this inspiring and uplifting new training programme developed with Dementia Adventure will mean our local volunteers have specialist skills to support people with dementia that use our clubs, groups, activities and services.”

Neil Mapes, CEO of Dementia Adventure added: “It’s been a pleasure working with Royal Voluntary Service to develop this important training programme and we are particularly grateful to those individuals that shared their experiences of life with dementia on film. We’re delighted that so many volunteers will be extending their knowledge and skills as a result.”

Royal Voluntary Service has been inspiring and enabling people to give the gift of voluntary service to meet the needs of the day for 80 years. Today, that’s supporting older people to stay healthy and happy, and helping the NHS.

To find out more about Royal Voluntary Service, call 0845 608 0122 or visit royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk