Memory Walk 2012 announced for September

Last year’s successful Memory Walk, made possible thanks to a collaboration between care home provider Bupa Care Homes and the Alzheimer’s Society, has convinced the partnership to organise a second Walk this September.

Raising money to support people diagnosed with dementia, last year’s Memory Walk succeeded in raising close to £900,000 thanks to the efforts of 10,000 walkers, and it is hoped that participant numbers throughout England, Wales and Northern Ireland will double this September.

This year’s Walk will also see the addition of a ‘Memory Mile’ at 16 of the flagship events, where walkers can choose to walk an extra mile in return for an extra £5 given to the by Bupa Care Homes.

Looking to get care homes themselves involved, managing director of Bupa Care Services Mark Ellerby commented: ““As the biggest provider of specialist dementia care, I'm delighted we're supporting Memory Walk for a second year. As well as the 16 flagship walks, we're encouraging our dementia care homes across the UK to organise their own Memory Walk, to get staff, residents and their families walking during the month. We've set ourselves a tremendous target and I really hope we reach our goals."

Chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Society Jeremy Hughes also commented: “I’m delighted that Bupa Care Homes are partnering with Alzheimer’s Society for the second year running. Last year was a great success and we had more walkers than ever before. From a four year old to his 80 year old gran and her dog, memory walk sees whole families coming together to fight dementia and demonstrate what we can all do to promote healthy living. Together we can make Memory Walk 2012 the best yet. Sign up by visiting memorywalk.org.uk.”

Bupa are a global healthcare organisation with a strong presence in the UK care home market, currently operating 299 registered homes, making it the second largest provider in the country.