THE number of people affected by dementia is steadily rising across East Ayrshire, in common with other areas.

With more than 900,000 Scots now having the condition, this is projected to double by 2038 as the population lives longer.

One ground-breaking programme which provides vital support is the Dementia Dog scheme which has just been given a £300,000 funding boost.

It has been running for three years now, having initially started as a collaboration between Alzheimer Scotland, Dogs for the Disabled (now Dogs for Good), Guide Dogs UK and product design students.

Independent charity, the Life Changes Trust, which was set up with a Big Lottery Fund endowment of £50million to support those affected by dementia has provided the funding.

Deputy director of Alzheimer Scotland, Joyce Gray, said: “The current Dementia Dog project is leading the way across the world in the development of services bringing dogs and people together to support people with dementia and their carers, and this funding provides a fantastic opportunity to build on this exemplar project.

“Dementia Dog has also allowed us to bring a fresh approach to the challenge of dementia. We are overwhelmed that Life Changes Trust has supported the project to this level.

“It shows such faith in the potential we know the project can deliver to the dementia community in Cumnock and Doon Valley.

“We will be also be able to extend our work, deliver innovation and joy to families who participate, and share our work on a global stage.”

One of the first dogs to be placed was with a local couple, who have been married 45 years, after the husband was diagnosed.

They welcomed Kaspa into their home in 2013 after the intelligent pooch had received special training so he could offer practical assistance.

He has taken much of the stress out of the dedicated couple’s lives and is also handy around the house, as our picture shows.