The free training sessions are being held at Gerringong Anglican Church on Tuesday, March 21 from 9.30am to 4pm.

Council’s community and cultural development manager Nick Guggisberg said the sessions were an important opportunity for Gerringong residents to become part of the Dementia Friendly movement.

“It is estimated that the majority of people in the Kiama municipality who are living with dementia live in the Gerringong area,” Mr Guggisberg said.

“This is a great chance for Gerringong residents to learn the skills to engage and communicate effectively with people with dementia. 

“Those who want to take part will also receive training in how to make your local community group more dementia friendly.”

The training is being organised and run in partnership with the Rotary Club of Gerringong Sunrise.

“This is one of the last free training sessions we are offering under our current funding, so I urge anyone interested to take advantage of this opportunity now," Mr Guggisberg said.

Those interested in taking part can book their place by contacting Mr Guggisberg on 4232 0444.

It is estimated that the number of people living with dementia will more than triple by 2050.

A dementia friendly community is a place where people with dementia are supported to live a high quality of life with meaning, purpose and value.

The Dementia Friendly Kiama Project won the Excellence in Community Partnerships at the 2016 National Disability Awards.

Further information: www.dementiaillawarra.com