A SAFETY team will be offering support and advice this Friday as part of Essex Dementia Day 2018.

The day is an annual event which encourages people to talk about dementia and to help build dementia-friendly communities across the Maldon district and Essex.

Maldon District Council’s community safety team are supporting the day by basing themselves at Blackwater Leisure Centre in Maldon from 10am to 1pm on Friday where they will offer advice and raise awareness of the services available in the district and wider county.

Bob Boyce, chairman of community services, said: “I am pleased the council is supporting Essex Dementia Day, it is important more people are aware of the effects of this condition and communities do what they can to support people with dementia.

“If you are concerned about this condition, or for a loved one, do come along to the Blackwater Leisure Centre on Friday to find out more information and how you can help.”

More than 850,000 people live with dementia in the UK, with more than 20,000 in Essex.

It costs the UK economy £26.3billion a year.