David’s story: 30 years of support

Alzheimer Scotland Trustee David McClements reflects on more than 30 years of campaigning and fundraising

"After I first became involved with Alzheimer Scotland I was part of a local branch in Falkirk. We had a small but very dedicated team of volunteers. Now more than 30 years later, it’s amazing to see the progress that has been made.

"It was in 1991 when, as a trainee solicitor, I worked with Evelyn McPake, who had a close family experience with dementia. At that time there was much less public awareness of dementia, nor was there much support available for those with a diagnosis. But Evelyn was one of a number of individuals committed to changing that and was instrumental in establishing Alzheimer Scotland.

"It was an exciting time. One of the early projects I worked on for Alzheimer Scotland was helping with a response to consultations on proposed legislation which became the Adults with Incapacity (Scotland) Act. It was a real landmark when it was enacted in Scotland in 2000 because it established principles with important protections for the rights of people who were not able to act or make decisions for themselves. It also enabled people to better plan for their own future arrangements.

"Incapacity and mental health law has formed a key part of my legal practice ever since. I often work with people who have memory issues or a diagnosis of dementia, and it’s so important to ensure that their rights are protected. It’s important to involve the person as much as possible in decision making and to avoid disregarding them and their wishes and preferences. It’s very rewarding being able to support someone and help them plan for the future, especially those who may not have anyone else to help them. I really enjoy hearing their life stories and perhaps giving them a bit of peace of mind.

"Over the years I have taken on the role of a Trustee and latterly Convenor of Alzheimer Scotland. The organisation has grown so much since I first joined and I’ve seen how they have helped improve awareness and understanding around dementia, as well as campaigning for issues like long term care.

"I think what has kept me involved all these years is that, for all the improvements that have been made, there are still many injustices out there to tackle – the discrimination and the ageism, for example, that’s associated with the illness.

"The work I’ve done with Alzheimer Scotland has had real benefits for me both personally and professionally. As well as positively impacting my legal practice, it has inspired me to keep my fitness in order by taking up fundraising challenges. I’m 57 now and was quite pleased to have survived the Men’s 10K race in Edinburgh recently, running for Alzheimer Scotland, and beat my age! I’ve also completed a sponsored zipslide across the Clyde which was rather nerve wracking as I do not have a head for heights, as well as completing a few half marathons for Alzheimer Scotland.

I’m planning to step back from my role on the Board but I intend to continue to support Alzheimer Scotland’s amazing work as much as I can."