ORGANISATIONS across a North-East town are uniting this week to raise the profile of a dementia friendly initiative.

The idea is to raise awareness of the condition in Middlesbrough and help to create a dementia friendly UK during Dementia Action Week from Monday, May 21 to Sunday, May 27.

The initiative aims to creative a safe and caring environment where people with dementia can live comfortably and be included and supported.

A programme of events led by Middlesbrough Council will run throughout the week, catering for those living with dementia as well as their friends, family and carers.

Events taking place across the town include a dementia friendly tour of the newly refurbished Middlesbrough Town Hall and a dementia friendly park run at Albert Park.

Advice and information sessions are also running at the Live Well Centre, a wellbeing hub located in Dundas Arcade in the town centre.

Middlesbrough Mayor Dave Budd said: “Dementia is one of the biggest social and economic challenges facing not just Middlesbrough but the whole of the UK.

“The condition could affect any of us at any time, but with the right care and support, those affected by dementia can continue to lead happy and fulfilled lives within their communities."