A community project supporting people with dementia has been honoured with a top accolade.
Dementia Friendly Prestwick scooped the Scotland Loves Local Streets and Spaces Award for their efforts in transforming the town’s promenade into a more accessible, welcoming and inviting space for those living with dementia.
In collaboration with South Ayrshire Council, Paths for All and Ayrshire Roads Alliance, DFP have utilised dementia-friendly principles along the seafront to secure brightly coloured benches, new signage, public art, and a road crossing which are enjoyed by the whole community.
The group were one of three projects in Scotland in the running for the Streets and Spaces category, sponsored by ThreeSixty Architecture.
Trustee Julie Twaddell said the group were shocked but thrilled to win the award.
She said: “I love our project- but in the same breath that they talked about our project they then talked about the £2million project from Falkirk Council so I didn’t really have great expectations.
“But we’re completely delighted.
“We’re just elated. We’ve had some lovely messages from some of the people we’re supporting so that makes it even more special.
She added: “To see this really positive, upbeat, uplifting project be so warmly embraced by the community is great.”
Prestwick councillor Hugh Hunter has supported the group’s work throughout and said: “This is a wonderful project to be involved with- and this is a beautiful promenade.
“What’s clear from this project is that if we get it right for people with dementia, we get it right for everyone.”
Organised by Scotland’s Towns Partnership (STP), the Scotland Loves Local Awards recognised and rewarded remarkable work taking place to transform communities and make them better places to live.
The awards were announced in an online celebration, presented by STV weatherman Sean Batty.
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