Living with dementia magazine June 2012

As media interest in dementia increases, the Press team is always busy keeping track of coverage and working with journalists. Volunteer Bachay Akolawin talks about her work with the team.

I decided to volunteer in  Alzheimer's Society's Press Office because I'm pursuing a career in public relations and the third sector. Press team members have provided me with a warm welcome and the responsibility to work on a number of interesting projects.

An eye on the press

I go through the national press for dementia and other health related stories. These articles vary greatly - recent headlines have included 'Alzheimer's patient left locked overnight on bus' and many health claims about dementia.

I compile a daily news bulletin to keep Alzheimer's Society staff up to date with the latest health issues and trends. This is created with the help of a computer program that collects regional and national press coverage which specifically features the Society.

All of the relevant coverage is later evaluated, printed and placed into our press clippings file so the Press team has a permanent record of its achievements.  

Voices for the media

We regularly receive requests from the press for people who can share their experiences of dementia at short notice. I've helped keep our database of media volunteers up to date, which is important because they help us to raise awareness and change the nation's perception of dementia by talking about their experiences in the media.

On becoming a media volunteer, people complete a questionnaire and data protection form for us and we send them a welcome pack. This explains what being a media volunteer involves, what topics they'll be asked about and examples of who they could be asked to speak to. This is to ensure that everyone we work with feels as comfortable as possible.

I recently recruited two new media volunteers who are participating in the Bupa Great Run series. In future, they may help us with anything from interviews with local newspapers to documentaries for television.

Valuable experience

I have assisted the Senior Press Officer for the Tesco partnership in editing and proofreading an evaluation report. This provided me with further understanding of what this kind of corporate partnership involves.

I've also had the privilege of participating in the first Alzheimer's Society Staff Awards as a member of the judging panel. This has given me a better idea of the range of roles within the organisation and how they benefit people affected by dementia.

My time at the Society has been extremely valuable. I have not only gained work experience with a national charity, but have also contributed to raising awareness of a condition that affects many people within our society.

If you are interested in sharing your experiences of dementia in the media, please contact the Press Office on 020 7423 3576 or press@alzheimers.org.uk

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