DEMENTIA Friendly Keighley has been chosen to take part in a national research and innovation programme.

The venture aims to help those feeling isolated during the current Covid-19 pandemic.

The programme is being staged in collaboration with charitable initiative Catalyst and the National Lottery Community Fund.

Under the scheme, support will be provided to help organisations research and develop digital, data and design capabilities which enable them to address urgent issues – and provide assistance to the most vulnerable in communities.

Dementia Friendly Keighley is specifically seeking to reach people who are isolated and struggling to access services that are on offer.

The intention is to create an app or device which will help people easily find the information they need, or to take part in activities online.

What is learned from the project will be shared to help other voluntary organisations across the Bradford district, including Keighley People First, Keighley Healthy Living, Roshni Ghar and the Highfield Centre.

Dementia Friendly Keighley manager, Julie Lintern, said the organisation was delighted to be involved in the initiative.

She added: “It’s very exciting to be selected to work alongside other charities nationally, sharing problems and looking for solutions.

“Covid-19 has been really tough for people living with dementia and their carers.

“We’ve tried to continue our services with a level of normality. But these services and activities aren’t accessible for all.”

The programme is currently in its research stage.

Organisations in different parts of the UK are coming together to identify issues that affect their service users and communities.

Once issues have been identified, the organisations will work with digital agencies on creating solutions.

Dementia Friendly Keighley offers information and support through its centre, at 48 Towngate, Keighley.

It is open five days a week but due to Covid-19 restrictions and social distancing requirements, visitors need to make an appointment.

The premises reopened last month after being shut due to lockdown.

Dementia Friendly Keighley has operated from the site since relocating there at the start of this year.

Anyone wishing to book an appointment can do so by calling 07452 773788.

More details about the organisation and the support it offers can also be found at dementiafriendlykeighley.org.uk, or search Dementia Friendly Keighley on social media.