Still got space for a new year’s resolution? Why not become a Dementia Friend?

One of the things I always encourage our editorial team to do is to go above and beyond on the stories that really matter and make a difference.

So, for instance, when we launch a campaign, rather than putting it out there and sitting back and let others actually make it happen, we have to get stuck in as well.

That was the case most recently with the Kerri McAuley Appeal to raise £10,000 to kit out a refuge for domestic violence victims.

Our crime correspondent Peter Walsh literally soaked himself to the skin raising hundreds of pounds through a bucket collection in Norwich city centre.

And I'm pleased to report that this week we won recognition for another example of this - the campaign to encourage people to become Dementia Friends.

As part of a bid to make us an official Dementia City, Age Concern Norwich has appealed to businesses to give their staff time to train and become more aware of the condition and how to be around people who live with it.

This newspaper backed that appeal and within Archant, our publishers, we made sure 50 members of staff became Dementia Friends.

And this week that campaign, led brilliantly and passionately by Kaye Nichols a member of our HR team, won the Community Award at the firm's annual celebration of the work that goes on here.

I mention this not to crow (okay maybe a little bit) but as an opportunity to remind people that this campaign is still going and it would be fantastic for more to get involved.

All it takes is completion of a very informative short course (done over an extended lunch hour). That course provides tips and guides on how to behave around those with dementia generally and what to do if you come across someone in distress. Those already signed up include Norfolk Police, Jarrolds, Aviva and Norwich Cathedral.

It's still early enough for New Year Resolutions so why not add this one to your list?

For more information on the scheme email Marie.lucas@ageuknorwich.org.uk