We (Rowena and Sarah) have been moving forward in the early stages of research to make some stations on the Penistone Line hidden disability-friendly. 

Too many people affected by dementia feel that society fails to understand the condition they live with. Dementia Friends help by raising awareness and understanding so that people living with dementia can continue to live in the way they want.

We met with Monika Tomaszewicz from Age UK, Calderdale & Kirklees a few weeks ago. We are also working closely with Kirklees Council and plan to be involved in steering groups, which in turn will lead to us shadowing people living with dementia and their carers, to better understand what is needed to improve services connected to rail travel on the Penistone Line.

Today Penistone Line Partnership, committee members and some of our partners attended their initial Dementia Friends training. It was great to be supported by so many people wanting to make a difference.

Dwell Time, members who are currently curating Issue 2 of Dwell Time arts publication reflecting on mental health issues, an ongoing wellbeing project for Penistone Line Partnership.

Penistone Paramount who will shortly be screening dementia-friendly films as part of an initiative with Penistone Line Partnership.

Train drivers, conductors, guards and rail staff will all need training if we are to support people with hidden disabilities. Awareness of the challenges some face is needed by our stakeholders without who our projects would not be possible.

Alex Bray from CrossCountry by Arriva one of our stakeholders became a Dementia Friend today. CrossCountry has part-funded the Dwell Time project.

We would encourage anyone to become a Dementia Friend. Start by clicking this link.

Thank you to everyone involved.