PUPILS in an Atherton school have signed up to become Dementia Friends.

Atherton St George’s CE Primary School hosted a Dementia Friends information session for teachers and pupils to learn more about the support they could offer their family and friends affected by dementia.

As part of the day youngsters were asked to write down something they would do after the session. Among the messages were ‘spend more time with my granddad who has dementia’ by 10-year-old Jack, ‘wear my badge with pride’ by seven-year-old Lexi and ‘go home and tell my family about dementia’ by 10-year-old Alfie.

The Dementia Friendly information sessions give an insight into what it is like to live with dementia to help people better understand how to offer support to someone who has the condition.

After the sessions, which were organised by the public health team at the council, the pupils each received a Dementia Friend pin badge to wear with pride.

Head of school Lisa Young said: “The children now have a better understanding of dementia and more awareness and information on how to communicate with people who may have dementia in their family or local community.”

Cllr Keith Cunliffe, portfolio holder for adult social care and public health, said: “It’s great to hear that pupils at the school are keen to learn more about being a Dementia Friend.

“Thousands have already signed up to the scheme and communities across the borough are doing their bit to help break down the isolation and stigma of dementia.”

For more information visit wigan.gov.uk/dementia.