Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a range of progressive, neurological disorders or conditions affecting the brain. The brain is made up of nerve cells (neurones) that communicate with each other by sending messages. Dementia damages the nerve cells in the brain so messages can’t be sent to and from the brain effectively. This can prevent the body from functioning normally. Dementia mainly affects people over the age of 65 (one in 14 people in this age group have dementia), and the likelihood of developing dementia increases significantly with age.

This policy will support you to demonstrate that team members at your company will provide dignified care and support to service users with dementia who are being transported on your vehicles; they will understand dementia and the impact it can have on a someone’s life. They will use a holistic, person-centred approach and aim to always meet the needs of the individual in their care.