A series of short films was created in 2022-2023, telling the personal stories of people in the Scottish Borders living with dementia, and their carers. View the films.
The films, commissioned by Borders Care Voice, introduce people who share their experiences of receiving a diagnosis, the support they received, and how dementia is affecting their lives now.
The films were created as part of Borders Care Voice’s ‘Dementia Voices’ project, funded by Life Changes Trust (part of the National Lottery Community Fund).
They feature members of Borders Dementia Working Group, a campaigning group that aims to give a voice to local people living with dementia. The group is supported by Borders Care Voice, Alzheimer Scotland and the Scottish Borders Health & Social Care Partnership. Members of the group worked with Borders-based filmmakers, Dynamite Initiatives, to produce the films.
Prue Pullen, unpaid carer and film participant, explained: “Few people really understand what it is like to live with dementia or to care for our relatives with this diagnosis. I was keen to take part so I could give people a glimpse into our lives, the challenges Alzheimer’s presents, how we struggle to cope, and to point out to the authorities how desperately in need of help we are.”
It is hoped that the films will be screened in dementia training, community groups, waiting rooms and any community setting to tackle stigma and raise awareness.
Jenny Smith, Chief Officer, Borders Care Voice, said: “Most Borderers will be affected by dementia at some point in their lives, either by living with a diagnosis or as family members and friends. We need to build a Scottish Borders which is dementia-friendly, and where people can get the support they need throughout their dementia journey. We hope that these films will help to break some taboos in our communities and show decision-makers what kind of support is needed locally.”
Please give your feedback on the films.
