SCOUTS in Gloucestershire have become Dementia Friends thanks to a partnership between the Alzheimer’s Society and the Scouts Association.

This comes as part of the 'A Million Hands' initiative between the two groups which started in 2015, since 320 Gloucestershire scouts have taken action against the disease.

As Dementia Friends, these young people are joining the biggest ever social movement to change the way people think, talk and act about dementia.

Together they tackle the stigma and lack of understanding around the illness, which contributes to many people who have the condition experiencing loneliness and social exclusion.

Lee Hawthorne of the Alzheimer’s Society, said: “It’s inspiring to see a new generation taking action to support people living with dementia.

"With 8,500 people living with the disease in Gloucestershire, and one million people predicted to have the condition in the UK by 2025, it’s vital that young people learn about dementia and the small actions they can take to support those living with it.

"We believe young people have the power to change the lives of people affected by dementia.”

Across the UK a staggering 20,000 Scouts have become Dementia Friends through 804 sessions, they challenge each young person to commit to one action and learn the five Dementia Friends principles.

Now Alzheimer’s Society is calling on young people across Gloucestershire to take action, and unite against dementia during the action week from May 21 to 27.

To book a Dementia Friends session visit dementiafriends.org.uk or find out more about the ‘A Million Hands’ project at amillionhands.org.uk