Helping dementia sufferers and their carers will be the focus on a church conference today (Oct 21).

The Bishop of Swansea and Brecon, John Davies, will open the all-day event at Brecon Cathedral, which will consider ways in which churches can become ‘dementia friendly’.

The Safeguarding Conference, called Dare2Care, is for clergy and church people in the Diocese of Swansea and Brecon who work with children and vulnerable adults. There will be a keynote address by Louise Morse who is the author of a number of books on dementia including “Worshipping with Dementia”.

Bishop John says, “The Church needs to address all the difficult issues which exist in society and to look for new ways of reaching out and as the title of this conference states Dare2Care”.

Dr Gill Todd, Chair of the Diocesan Safeguarding Committee said “Church members come into regular contact with children and vulnerable adults through church activities, work with schools and youth organizations, and through work with families across the Diocese which stretches from Rhossili on the Gower peninsula diagonally across Wales to Beguildy in Powys.

“This conference is demonstrating that the Church is taking very seriously the pastoral care which its churches offer and provide through their contact with people with specific needs.”

There will also be keynote addresses on The Prevention of Child Sexual Abuse, Protecting Children on-line, Scams and The Challenge of Alcohol.  Conference will provide information and practical advice on how to provide a caring inclusive church which is safe. 

Members of the Press are welcome to attend and they can make contact with Dr Gill Todd, on 07971 314798