OFFICERS at Cheshire Constabulary will become a Dementia Friend to transform the way the nation thinks, talks and acts about the condition.

The force has identified a number of staff and officers who will complete the Dementia Friends Champions training course which is run by The Alzheimer’s Society.

The programme aims to equip officers with the necessary skills which enables them to help victims, witnesses, offenders and missing people in a more effective and appropriate manner.

Deputy chief constable Janette McCormick said: “Dementia touches the lives of millions of people across the UK, yet many people do not understand what the condition is and what impact it has on those who live with it.

“By becoming a Dementia Friend our aim is to ensure that all our officers and staff have awareness of dementia, and know what simple steps they can make when dealing with people living with dementia.”

The constabulary is also looking to introduce Dementia Friends training as part of the standard training package for all new recruits.

Police and crime commissioner David Keane said: “I believe that this will make a real difference to the communities we serve.

“Dementia can affect anyone and people living with the condition often feel confused and frustrated and their families often feel isolated by the stigma that is attached to the condition."