A Denny-based group which raises awareness of dementia is getting ready to expand across the wider Falkirk area with the help of a new logo designed by a local school pupil.

Originally known as Dementia Friendly Denny, the new Dementia Friendly Falkirk initiative partnered with local schools to run a logo competition ahead of its launch across Falkirk.

The link up builds on the community connections already at the heart of the group, which brings together local services, community groups, schools, and businesses to help foster a dementia friendly environment in the local area.

The winning design, created by S1 Falkirk High pupil Amy Morrison, was chosen by the team at Dollar Park Dementia Service for its explanation of the positive difference felt by people accessing local support.

Original design by Amy, S1 pupil at Falkirk High School

Explaining the ethos behind the design, which features Falkirk’s iconic steeple and Kelpies surrounded by two hands coming together, Amy said in her entry: “I used the hands in the heart shape to symbolise love, and the bright colourful space inside with Falkirk landmarks to represent local support.

“The grey clouded area outside of the hands symbolises what dementia can be like.”

Pupils from across the local area were invited to enter the logo competition, with support from school art departments.

Margaret Thom, Service Manager, Dollar Park Dementia Service, explains the partnership with schools: “We already have good links with local schools, offering student placement experiences within our services, so I’m thrilled to expand Dementia Friendly across Falkirk with their help.

“We hope the competition gave young people a chance to get involved in something for their community and helped their understanding of dementia.

“We received a selection of wonderful designs from Falkirk’s young people and wish to thank all pupils for their entries, as well as the schools for getting involved.

“Amy’s winning logo impressed the judging panel, as it conveyed the complexities of dementia in one design. We can’t wait to start using it across our local activity.”

Dementia Friendly Falkirk will begin to use the new logo throughout its activity, as it plans to expand training, education, and volunteering opportunities across the local area.