DUDLEY Council is launching its dementia friendly community app at a special theatre performance in Halesowen about the life of someone living with memory loss.

The new app is designed to give everyone the knowledge and confidence to support someone with dementia.

It had been produced by the Dudley Council’s dementia gateway service in partnership with community interest company, Equip 4 Change. People will be able to download the app from the council’s website to their smart phone or other device.

Councillor Dave Branwood, cabinet member for adult, community and housing services, said “Supporting people with dementia and their families is a key priority for the council but we’re also keen to develop the wider communities’ understanding of the condition. As the number of people with dementia is predicted to rise in coming years, our new app can provide information about its effects and the support available locally. I’m delighted we’re able to launch this app during the performance of Finding Joy and I hope people come along to enjoy it.”

The app will be launched during a special performance of Finding Joy, a funny and moving play performed by award winning mask and mime company, Vamos on Wednesday, February 26 from 8pm at the Cornbow Hall in Halesowen.

The play tells the story of Joy and how she, her daughter and grandson are coping with her memory loss. The performance is suitable for people aged 14 plus.

People with dementia and their families are invited to attend the free performance. People can request tickets by calling 01384 818723 or by emailing carers.network@dudley.gov.uk.

The launch of the app and the Finding Joy performance is part of the council’s work to develop a Dementia Friendly Dudley. The council, in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society, Equip 4 Change and other key partners have been working with local people and organisations to establish Halesowen as the first dementia friendly town in the borough. This success will be built upon and rolled out to other areas in the borough as part of Dudley’s commitment to the National Dementia Action Alliance.