THE Scottish Borders annual Dementia conference – Have Your Voice – took place earlier this month at the Dryburgh Abbey Hotel.

Hosted by Scottish Borders Council (SBC), Alzheimer Scotland and NHS Borders, the event is an opportunity for everyone involved in the provision of dementia support and services locally to come together to share ideas and good practice.

The event was led by Peter Lerpiniere, Dementia Liaison Nurse from NHS Borders. As well as presentations from keynote speakers, activities included an exercise routine from the Community Capacity Building Team and music from a local choir.

Agnes Houston from the Scottish Dementia Working Group (SDWG) provided a clear insight into the importance of involving people with dementia in service development. She gave an engaging account of the work undertaken by the SDWG and the importance of their role throughout the country.

Aileen MacFarlane from the Specialist Dementia team gave a presentation on the importance of personal video diaries, a joint project that SBC and NHS Borders engaged with in 2013. Attendees were impressed with how well the project had been developed.

Christine Proudfoot, Senior Charge Nurse, Mental Health at NHS Borders provided a moving account with Andy Lowndes, Playlist for Life, about the impact of music for the person with dementia and their loved ones. Their presentation proved to be very powerful and emotional for many listeners. Christine also talked through the research she is undertaking to build up evidence that shows how music is one of the best therapies.

Councillor Frances Renton, SBC’s Executive Member for Social Work and Housing said: “As the number of people living with dementia increases, more and more people will be touched by the difficulties of living with this very challenging condition; whether as a patient, carer, family member or friend.

“This annual event is vital in terms of sharing information, both from a local and national perspective, so that carers and professionals alike are able to appreciate the full picture of what it is like to either live with dementia or provide support for someone who does.” Trudy Gane, Clinical Service Manager Mental Health for Older Adults Services, NHS Borders added: “Each contribution to the day was invaluable for anyone looking for more insight into the provision of dementia care here in the Borders.

“Of particular importance was the genuine and heart-felt account we heard from one of our local carers, giving us a picture of the day to day reality of caring for someone with dementia.

“Professionals need to hear what it is like for patients and carers as they go through the experience of a hospital stay or supporting someone at home so we know what works well but also where the gaps are and where we need to improve.

“Other carers also gain a great deal from hearing about someone else’s experience.

“Overall, we are making good progress here in the Borders in terms of service provision but we know there is still a way to go so all the feedback, comments and interactions that took place at the conference are vital in terms of helping us to plan for the future accordingly.”