Perthshire volunteers needed to help make breakthroughs possible for people with dementia

Passionate volunteers in Perthshire are being asked to come forward to join a new fundraising group which has launched to support pioneering dementia research.

The founding members of the Alzheimer’s Research UK Perth Fundraising Group have already held their first event, a quiz at Abbotsford Lounge Bar which raised more than £400. They have plans underway for more events and activities and are looking for new members with a range of skills to join the team.

Members can get involved in fundraising challenges and activities, represent Alzheimer’s Research UK at events and spread the word about the charity within their local community.

Kay Dempsey, a member of the group, said:

“I support Alzheimer’s Research UK because I feel Alzheimer’s is such a cruel disease. The effect has far-reaching consequences for the person with the disease and their family. I have personal experience of this. I also have professional experience looking after patients with dementia in my role as a nurse.

“I am passionate about trying to help find a cure to prevent other families experiencing the devastating effect of dementia.”

Alzheimer’s Research UK has invested nearly £7million in research in Scotland, backing around 60 projects exploring the causes of dementia and work towards preventions, treatments and a cure for diseases like Alzheimer’s. This includes projects at the University of Dundee, which is part of the Alzheimer’s Research UK Scotland Network Centre, an initiative that brings together researchers across the country.

Kyle Lockhart, Alzheimer’s Research UK’s Fundraising Officer for Scotland, said:

“We are delighted to have launched a fundraising group in Perthshire and look forward to welcoming new members.

“There are around 70,000 people with dementia in Scotland and the condition has a devastating effect on families. Alzheimer’s and the other forms of dementia are now one of society’s biggest medical challenges, but overcoming them isn’t impossible.

“Alzheimer’s Research UK’s mission is to make life-changing breakthroughs possible for people with dementia and our fundraising groups are vital in helping us achieve this, both through raising vital funds and helping to spread awareness of the condition.”

Anyone wishing to get involved in the group can contact Kyle on 07760884529 or kyle.lockhart@alzheimersresearchuk.org

For further information about Alzheimer’s Research UK visit www.alzheimersresearchuk.org