PEOPLE in the community suffering from dementia and memory problems are being encouraged to take part in a memory café that runs at Okehampton College next week. Over the past few months the college has been striving to become 'dementia-friendly'. The school has been actively engaged with Dementia Friendly Okehampton, an initiative to raise awareness of the condition and make the town a 'dementia friendly community'. Okehampton is one of only 21 schools and colleges across England involved in such intergeneration work. From signing in visitors, to how to meet and greet visitors, the college ambassadors gain many social skills not taught within the formal curriculum. The memory cafés have been running since May 2013. The monthly service runs on the second Tuesday of each month in the Growing Our Futures hut on the school site, with music, activities supported by students and refreshments. College ambassadors are to attend a workshop and receive training in accordance with the Alzheimers' Association. Julie Luckhurst from the college has been involved with the project. She said: 'The memory cafés are great for those dealing with dementia and for the college students as well. It promotes understanding of the condition, and provides students with skills and understanding, as well as promoting social skills.' The café will allow people suffering with memory conditions to socialise in a friendly and safe environment. The sessions will run from 2.30pm to 4.30pm each month. The dates for the 2014-15 academic year have been announced, with September 9 the first date in the schedule. For more information call Julie Luckhurst on 01837 650910.