Wishaw dementia campaigner honoured with New Year MBE

A WISHAW man has been awarded a New Year honour for his services to campaigning and awareness-raising. James McKillop (70), is the founding member of the Scottish Dementia Working Group (SDWG).

He received an MBE for his tireless campaigning to improve the rights of people with dementia and also for raising awareness of the illness.

Father-of-four James is the former chairperson of SDWG, an independent group run by people with dementia and funded by Comic Relief and Alzheimer Scotland.

Dementia affects more than 70,000 people in Scotland. Alzheimer’s is the main form and the second most common is vascular dementia. As yet there is no cure.

Former civil servant James, who now lives in Glasgow, was diagnosed with vascular dementia in 1999.

He told the Wishaw Press: “This award is not just for me but also all of the people whom I represent.

“Since Alois Alzheimer gave his name to the most common form of dementia there have been unions and groups for those who look after people with dementia, such as psychiatrists, doctors, nurses and carers. But there have been no groups for people with dementia. And I loudly asked – why not?”

It was James’ frustration at this lack of representation which was the driving force behind the creation of SDWG in 2002.

With the assistance of professional colleagues and James’ encouragement and support of early members, the SDWG created its own constitution and secured ongoing funding for activities.

He led and inspired the group for six years, before standing down as chairman in 2008 – though he continues to be an active member.

James added: “In years gone by, when someone was diagnosed with dementia it meant that their life was effectively over.

“We have shown conclusively that does not have to be the case. People with mental health issues can still contribute and must be allowed to do so.”

Henry Simmons, chief executive of Alzheimer Scotland, said: “Alzheimer Scotland are greatly pleased that James’ achievements and those of the Scottish Dementia Working Group have been publicly recognised in this way.

“James is a true inspiration to us all: using his own experiences of dementia to make a huge difference to the lives of countless others who have the illness.

“James and the SDWG have brought a vital new perspective of dementia to health and social care professionals, politicians and the media. Their impact cannot be under-estimated.”