A KEIGHLEY charity is urging anyone who may be concerned about their memory to seek help.

Dementia Friendly Keighley says people with concerns, or who are experiencing difficulties concentrating, following conversations or carrying out familiar everyday tasks, should come forward.

The charity says symptoms such as memory loss and forgetfulness don't necessarily mean a person has dementia, but it advises getting them checked out so that support can be accessed if necessary.

Helen Charters, who runs Dementia Friendly Keighley's town centre information and support centre, says: "We see all sorts of people – from someone concerned about their memory, to others with a dementia diagnosis, as well as those caring for somebody with dementia who are wanting to know what local support is available.

"We know that a lot of family members become carers for someone with dementia without any preparation or training. That’s why it’s vital for them to have access to the right information, advice and support locally.

"People can call us, come in for an appointment to discuss their individual situations, or simply call in for a coffee and chat at any time with our volunteers, all of whom understand the challenges faced by someone affected by dementia."

Dementia Friendly Keighley was formed in 2014 by a group of people with experience of the condition, having supported a loved one through their 'journey'.

The organisation now has a team of over 20 volunteers, most of whom have first-hand experience of family members living with dementia.

A variety of activities is on offer, from peer-to-peer support coffee clubs to crafts and tai chi sessions.

Alison Barker, a trustee with the charity, says: "We have come a long way since those early days.

"We get referrals from GPs and other healthcare professionals and community organisations, we work with providers such as the Alzheimer’s Society and Carers' Resource and the community mental health team’s home-based memory rehabilitation programme, to ensure local people get the best support available.

"Our vision is to make Keighley a dementia friendly community, where people living with dementia and their families can feel safe and supported. To date we have created over 5,000 individual dementia friends from around the Keighley and district’s diverse communities."

Dementia Friendly Keighley’s information and support centre, in the Airedale Shopping Centre, is open weekdays from 10am-4pm.

Further details about the charity can be obtained by calling 01535 602529, or visit dementiafriendlykeighley.org.uk.