Dementia Buddy trackers

Thornton councillor Andrea Kay is leading the battle to raise cash for potentially life-saving tags which can help locate missing people.

The idea came to Coun Kay following an awareness day held in Cleveleys last month.

She said: “Many residents have dementia and families struggle to get help.

“I was shocked to see many residents who are struggling to cope

“Dementia is an illness that many people can’t see we wouldn’t even know that our neighbours could be suffering in silence.”

She is hoping the special devices, called Dementia Buddies, could bring peace of mind to families.

Coun Kay said: “I found out about these wonderful wristbands, badges, and walking stick pendants that residents could have to help .

“The special device helps find the resident with dementia so that the families and services can get them back home safe and sound.”

In some areas local authorities or the NHS are able to fund the devices.

That is not the case in Cleveleys where residents currently are not able to receive one of the devices free.

Coun Kay is now working alongside PCSO Gill Mason to make that happen.

A special fund-raising event will be held at Morrisons in Cleveleys from 10am to 4pm on Saturday.

Other stores have already pledged their support.

Coun Kay said: “We need to raise approximately £2,500 to enable our residents to receive the device free please come along on the day and take part.

“Raising awareness is so important for all families and I want to support this equipment if we can.”