DEMENTIA specialist nurses will be offering free, confidential support to people across Wiltshire when clinics return to Nationwide branches this February.

The sessions in Chippenham and Salisbury will be hosted by Dementia UK’s Admiral Nurses, who provide expert practical and emotional support to anyone affected by dementia – whether they are worried about early symptoms, navigating a diagnosis or caring for a loved one.

Held in private rooms within Nationwide branches, the clinics aim to provide a safe and welcoming space for open conversations about a condition that can often feel overwhelming or isolating.

Appointments are free and open to anyone impacted by dementia, with bookings available through Dementia UK’s website.

Dementia UK says many people are unsure when to seek help, as the earliest signs are not always linked to memory loss.

While increasing forgetfulness is common, symptoms can also include difficulties with decision-making, communication problems, changes in behaviour or personality and disorientation around time and place.

The charity is encouraging anyone with concerns to speak to their GP as soon as possible, while also reassuring families that specialist support is available throughout the process – including when people feel frightened, reluctant or in denial about seeking medical advice.

The Wiltshire clinics form part of Nationwide’s Fairer Futures social impact programme, which partners with charities tackling some of the UK’s biggest social challenges, including dementia.

Nationwide is funding 30 Admiral Nurses nationally and hosting clinics in 200 branches, helping tens of thousands of people access specialist support.

Admiral Nurse at Dementia UK Sarah Cooper said: “We’re looking forward to returning to Wiltshire to offer support and advice to families affected by dementia in the area.

“Our clinic programme, in partnership with Nationwide Building Society, has now been running for over a year which has enabled us to reach thousands of people across the country who need the support of a dementia specialist Admiral Nurse.”

Director of customer experience and social impact for Nationwide Charlotte Kensett said: “Dementia impacts millions of families and that’s why we’re incredibly proud to have brought life-changing support into 200 of our branches and helped more than 30,000 people through our partnership with Dementia UK.

“As a mutual we believe we have a role to play in strengthening the communities we serve and supporting those most in need.

“Through our social impact strategy, Nationwide Fairer Futures, we’re committed to changing hundreds of thousands of lives for the better.”

The clinics will take place at Nationwide in Salisbury (19–21 Old George Mall) on February 10, 11 and 12 and in Chippenham (50 Market Place) on February 2, 3 and 4.