Santander is supporting National Dementia Action Week between 20 – 26 May 2019 to help raise awareness and funds to improve the lives of people living with dementia. For each of the first 40,000 Santander Cycle rides taken on the London cycle hire scheme during the week, Santander will donate £1 to Alzheimer’s Society. In addition, 100 Santander Cycles will be receiving bespoke livery to highlight the campaign and spread awareness across London.
As well as travelling around the city, cyclists will be able to support dementia by staying in one place – Santander is encouraging people to participate in a static bike challenge which will take place outside their offices in Triton Square on Monday 20 May. The aim of the challenge is to promote awareness and encourage donations for Alzheimer’s Society, with all participants receiving Forget-Me-Not pin badges, showing support for uniting against dementia.
In addition to the static bikes in Triton Square, a team from Alzheimer’s Society will be on hand to provide information about dementia and its impact on individuals and their families. There will also be specialists available to provide private one-to-one dementia support for those who are facing the condition in their own lives.
Nathan Bostock, CEO of Santander UK, said “We’re proud to participate in Dementia Action Week and harness the power of the Santander Cycles scheme to help raise awareness and take action against dementia. We would encourage anyone in London to hop on to a Santander Cycle to help raise funds or to come along to our static bike challenge and learn about what they can do to support people with dementia as we continue to work with Alzheimer’s Society to help people living with dementia to be financially included, independent and empowered.”
Will Norman, Walking and Cycling commissioner, said: “I’m really pleased that the first 40,000 Santander Cycle hires made during National Dementia Action Week will raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society. Cycling is a great way to get around and see our city, but even more importantly, people who cycle regularly can reduce their risk of developing Alzheimer’s by up to 30 per cent. I am sure Londoners will get on their bikes to support this valuable cause.”
Jeremy Hughes, Alzheimer’s Society CEO said: “I am delighted that Santander UK is making a huge impact this Dementia Action Week. From Dementia Friends sessions happening across Santander’s offices, to the phenomenal dual branded bikes showcased in London through the week, Santander is continually transforming the dementia landscape. Not only are we raising much needed awareness, but we are incredibly grateful for Santander UK’s £40,000 donation to mark this occasion. It is so wonderful that together, we are uniting against dementia.”
Santander chose Alzheimer’s Society as its national Charity Partner for 2019-2021, following a selection process which included a vote by thousands of Santander staff across the UK. The focus of the partnership is on working together to improve financial inclusion and help those within our communities who may struggle to cope with new technology, as well as employee fundraising activities and volunteering. The bank and charity are combining their respective areas of expertise, to establish joint strategic initiatives that will improve the quality of life of people affected by dementia. Santander’s ambition is to become the best digital dementia friendly bank in the UK.
