A DEMENTIA support service is in the running for top national award.

The Carers Trust North Wales charity’s Dementia Support Service, the first of its kind in Wales, has been shortlisted for the ‘Outstanding Dementia Care Innovation Award’ at the Dementia Care Awards.

The service, commissioned by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB), offers a range of personalised support to people who have been diagnosed with dementia and their families.

This includes access to a named Dementia Coordinator, as well as training, emotional support and social activities.

Chris Roberts, of Rhuddlan, paid tribute to the support service.

The 58-year-old was diagnosed with vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 51.

The ambassador for the Alzheimer’s Society and vice chair of the European Working Group for People with Dementia, said: "This project is one of the amazing success stories that Wales should be proud of. It’s giving people quality of life, it’s educating people about how to live with or care for somebody with dementia, and it’s helping to keep people out of hospital."

“I think Wales is leading the way in terms of caring for people with dementia and it’s important to keep that momentum up.”

The Dementia Support Service has supported more than 2,000 people living with dementia since being established in 2016.

Staff from the Carers Trust North Wales Crossroads and BCUHB will attend an awards ceremony at Doncaster Racecourse on November 7.

Lesley Singleton, BCUHB’s Director of Partnerships, said: "We’re incredibly proud that our unique partnership with the Carers Trust North Wales has received national recognition for the huge impact it’s making for people living with dementia”

Alison Jones, chief executive officer of the Carers Trust North Wales, added: "Our service is based on the premise that nobody who receives a diagnosis of dementia is left unsupported, and it’s clear from the feedback we have received from people living with dementia and their carers that the service is having a huge impact on their lives at a time when they need it the most."