Those with dementia are invited to East Hampshire Dementia Festival in the Festival Hall to help them learn to live well with the condition.

Family and carers are also invited to the second such event since the pandemic organised by Jeff Williams of Petersfield with the support of East Hampshire District Council.

Dementia is estimated to affect one in 14 people over 65 and one in six people over 80.

Jeff Williams, a Petersfield Dementia Friends Champion, said: “Dementia is extremely common and affects so many families, but often people don’t know anything about it until they are faced with a diagnosis.

“There’s lots you can do to help someone live well with dementia by keeping active and keeping your brain healthy and exercised.

“At the Dementia Festival there’s a huge amount of expert advice, legal support, medical support, compassion and companionship.

“If you have an elderly relative who is suffering from memory loss of who has recently been diagnosed with dementia come along to the festival and find out what you can do to help.”

The event will offer medical and legal advice, practical help for families and carers, activities and dementia-related services.

It will also offer activities suitable for people with dementia as well as music, crafts and a chance to meet and chat with people who share similar experiences.

Cllr Julie Butler, EHDC’s Deputy Leader, added: “It can be very daunting when you first discover that you or a loved one has dementia, but there is a massive amount of support out there for people in that position.

“Looking after someone can be hard, but with the right advice and the right support it is possible to live well with dementia.

“Last year’s festival after the pandemic was a huge success, with stalls from all kinds of local organisations, voluntary groups and businesses who can help you.”

The event on Friday, March 10, from 10am to 3.30pm in Petersfield Festival Hall, will also provide guidance, contacts, legal advice and more for people concerned about memory loss in themselves or in a loved one.

For more information email Callum Christie or Hannah Robbins at East Hampshire District Council on [email protected] or [email protected]

Or contact Jeff Williams, Dementia Friends Champion, Petersfield on 07849 195702.