Chesham and Amersham MP Cheryl Gillan has taken a key step towards helping end the stigma surrounding dementia last week after joining a charity initiative to help those who suffer with the condition.

Mrs Gillan became a 'Dementia Friend' - someone who has an understanding of the conditions and the ways they can help - alongside her constituency and Westminster staff.

The initiative by the Alzheimer's Society is designed to help make communities more dementia friendly.

Mrs Gillan said: "I've signed up to show my support for Dementia Friends, and am encouraging people in Chesham and Amersham to do the same too.

"With a growing number of people living with dementia, it's more important than ever that we all have a better understanding of the condition.

"Dementia Friends is about giving people an understanding of dementia and the small things they can do that can make a difference to people living with dementia.

"From helping someone find the right bus to spreading the word about dementia, it can help make our local community a better place to live."

Sam Gould, National Campaigns Manager at Alzheimer's Society, said: "Dementia is one of the biggest health and care challenges our country faces - one that all of society must respond to.

"Too many people are not getting the support they deserve and are entitled to. Too many families are struggling to get by."

"We all have a part to play in improving the lives of people living with dementia. But we need the next government - and every MP - to play their part in creating a dementia-friendly UK. Therefore we are delighted to see Cheryl Gillan showing her support for Dementia Friends."

For more information about becoming a Dementia Friend visit www.dementiafriends.org.uk.