People living with dementia and those around them know how many challenges it can bring to the lives of all those affected.

To provide support, in an initiative introduced by the Lead Member for Communities & Health and Lead Member for Leisure, Tourism & Wellbeing of Rochford District Council’s Joint Administration, the Council is funding free Guardian Angel dementia wristbands for Rochford residents. Guardian Angel wristbands are a scheme developed by the Good Deeds Trust, a charity to support people living with Dementia and Alzheimer's in the local community.

The wristbands are pre-programmed with the first name of the sufferer and the telephone number of their designated emergency contact. This can be their carer, next of kin, or any other person who they trust.

If the person wearing the Guardian Angel Device goes out and gets distressed, disorientated or lost, any member of the public who has a mobile phone with short-range wireless connectivity – found on androids and iPhones – can hold their phone over the device and immediately be able to telephone the carer or loved one of the person with dementia.

The devices therefore enable the wearer to be reunited with their family as quickly as possible and with the least amount of distress. They are particularly useful with early onset dementia, when the person affected by this condition is still going about their day-to-day life but is at risk of getting distressed or confused.

If you are worried about a loved one with Alzheimer's or Dementia, who lives in the Rochford District, and would like a wristband, please visit www.rochford.gov.uk/other-health-support and complete the application form.