HUNDREDS of staff and volunteers at Durham Cathedral have taken steps to make the historic landmark dementia-friendly.

Some 400 people who work at the cathedral are taking part in special awareness sessions run by Alzheimer’s Society staff which will see them become ‘Dementia Friends'.

The show of mass support was part of an initiative that aims to provide people with an understanding of dementia and the small things they can do that can make a difference to people living with the disease.

Marie Wisson, volunteer manager at Durham Cathedral, said the Dementia Friends sessions would pave the way for the world-famous place of worship to become dementia-friendly.

"Here at Durham Cathedral, we recognise the increasing need for awareness for those living with dementia," she said.

"These training sessions for staff and volunteers mark the first step towards becoming a dementia-friendly organisation.

"That will ensure the best welcome for all visitors to Durham Cathedral and to provide support for staff and volunteers who may be caring for those living with dementia."

Dementia Friends was launched in February 2013 by Alzheimer’s Society. It aims to help people understand what it might be like to live with dementia and turn that understanding into action.

The 45-minute interactive Dementia Friends sessions heralded the start of Dementia Awareness Week.

In a further show of support, the Cathedral will be offering ten per cent off in the shop and restaurant next week for those with an Alzheimer’s Society voucher.

They will also be offering two-for-one entry to the Cathedral Tower for those with a voucher, as well as free tours of Durham Cathedral next Friday (May 22) for those living with dementia and their carers.