Alzheimer’s Scotland have joined forces with Kilmarnock’s Galleon Centre to deliver dementia friendly swimming sessions.
Kilmarnock’s branch of the charity, based at College Wynd, won funding to redesign the internal signage at the swimming pool and retrain staff in how to recognise the signs of dementia and safeguard those who may be vulnerable due to the condition.
Jim Baird, locality manager for the charity told the Standard: “We continually strive to help people with dementia continue to live well, and for those that enjoy swimming, this will be a great partnership – the staff at the Galleon have really embraced the changes to their environment and their role in keeping people safe.”
Depute general manager at the Galleon, David Hasson said: “It’s great to be involved with Alzheimer Scotland and I’d like to thank Jim for highlighting the service and for taking the time to carry out the training.
“The Galleon Centre offers something for everyone and it is only right that all user groups should be encouraged to attend.
“Our frontline staff have responded extremely well to the training initiative and we are proud to be offering a Dementia Friendly service.”
The new signs and dementia friendly swimming sessions aim to ensure those living with the condition feel understood, valued and able to contribute to their community.
The clear symbols on the signs aim to ensure there is clear communication with the relevant information.
Lucy Richards from Studio LR who designed the signage said: “By listening to the views of people living with dementia, we were able to identify areas of improvement in signage and symbol design.
“Our intention wasn’t to design signs that single out or stigmatise people living with dementia, but to design signs that work best for the whole of society.
“The new signage will be more effective for everyone right across society – clear, easy to understand and relevant to people’s everyday lives.”
The first swimming session will be held on October 25 at noon. Information can be received from Jim Baird on 07584 327875 or David Hasson on 01563 524014.
