Almost one million people are living with dementia in the UK, putting precious memories and lives at risk. Together, Dobbies and Alzheimer’s Research UK will highlight the benefits of gardening to help protect brain health and reduce the risk of developing dementia.
As part of this new national partnership, Dobbies joins the charity’s Think Brain Health campaign as a partner. Think Brain Health aims to educate and empower the public about the steps they can take to look after their brain health and help reduce dementia risk.
It is based on research showing that up to 45% of all cases of dementia are linked to factors we may be able to influence. Despite this, only a third of people in the UK realise it’s possible to reduce their dementia risk.
Dobbies will also be supporting Alzheimer’s Research UK’s vital work to accelerate progress towards a cure for dementia.
Alzheimer’s Research UK’s Chief Executive Officer, Hilary Evans-Newton, describes the connection between the two organisations. “Alzheimer’s Research UK is incredibly excited to join forces with Dobbies to mark 160 years of garden living. Brains are like gardens, when well-tended and looked after, they can flourish. We’ll work together to inspire their community to protect their brain health through activities like gardening, while raising vital funds for a cure for dementia.”
This new partnership follows on from a successful national appeal made by Dobbies to charities across the UK. David Robinson, Dobbies Garden Centres’ CEO, said: “When we were looking for a new charity partner that would be the right fit for us, and for our customers, there were really clear parallels with Alzheimer’s Research UK.
He added: “Through this partnership, we’ll inspire people to keep their brains healthy, and one way to do this is through gardening and staying connected with other people – exactly what our stores deliver through our products and experiences. We’ve had a brilliant response from our colleagues and we’re confident that our customers will feel motivated to support our fundraising efforts to help find a cure. As we celebrate 160 years of helping British gardeners to grow, we’re really proud to share the news of this important new partnership.”
The partnership between Dobbies and Alzheimer’s Research UK will launch in March with a year-round programme of fundraising and awareness raising activity through colleague and customer engagement.
