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The reality of dementia is being explained to young children through an art project.

Magna Carta Primary Academy has partnered with Volunteer Uttlesford to take part in numerous pieces of work together.

To start the partnership, pupils are joining the Petal Wave Art Trail to show the community they understand and support those living with dementia.

Pupils are decorating petals of the Forget-me-Not flower – the symbol of dementia – to hang on their school fence as part of the project.

Headteacher Marios Solomonides said: “This work enables us to teach pupils, in a child-friendly way, about dementia. Many will have encountered dementia before, whether it be in the community or their own grandparents or other relatives.

“It’s about making the most of the life you live and showing pupils that everyone is unique. We don’t want children to be afraid when they meet someone with dementia. Instead, we want them to understand they are still a person with a life and a history and to have the confidence to chat with them in a safe way.”

Pat Lodge, volunteer co-ordinator at Volunteer Uttlesford, said: “At Volunteer Uttlesford, we find working with young children is inspiring and fun. They are always so open to everything, enter into what is asked of them and actually show great awareness of issues. Their wise comments ensure we always leave meeting them on a high.”