The Big Blue Thank You is a virtual movement with a simple aim: to say thank you to our key workers and support charities.
TeamAlzScot are excited to be taking part, and we’re delighted to shine a light on one of our fundraisers who is also an Alzheimer Scotland key worker.
Norman Williamson, Dementia Advisor in Inverclyde has been fundraising and working for Alzheimer Scotland during lockdown and shares his experience with us. After recovering himself from Covid-19, Norman has been back at work and adapting his support for people living with dementia and their families.
Norman explains his role as providing person centred support to people living with dementia and their carers which can range from offering a listening ear; giving information and advice; helping maintain community connections; and empowering people with dementia and their carers to ensure their voice is heard.
During lockdown, the principles of the role remain, however delivery of support has had to change.
“The vehicles we use to deliver the support have had to change. We have had to quickly adapt to the restrictions of the lockdown such as 1:1 video consultations, regular telephone calls, online groups and activities, and extended use of social media to reach out beyond those already known to our service.”
Norman explains further that his role as Dementia Advisor is often a lifeline to many.
“People we support and their carers report they are missing the face to face meetings; and the social interaction that the community groups and activities provide. It’s difficult to measure the exact impact the DA service is making during lockdown, but the feedback we continually receive is evidence that we are making a positive difference. Just knowing the difference one phone call can make to persons day makes it all worthwhile.”
Norman is training for the Brighton Marathon and dedicates his achievements to his mother who lived with dementia and sadly died in April. Norman’s mother received support from Alzheimer Scotland which allowed her to live at home within her community.
Can you join Alzheimer Scotland in the Big Blue Thank You Movement to thank Norman and all our other incredible key workers? Click here to join in.
To make a donation to Norman’s fundraising page, click here to visit his Just Giving page.