Alzheimer Scotland has launched its 2016 Christmas advertising campaign featuring the world’s first Alzheimer’s inspired tartan to help raise vital funds for people living with dementia during the season of good cheer.
The poignant two minute online ad titled ‘Tartan Christmas’ is available to watch now:
The advert tells the story of a son searching for the perfect thoughtful gift for his mum as he discovers the Alzheimer Scotland Tartan against the backdrop of Edinburgh’s historic Old Town. Set to the soundtrack of ‘Vanishing Act’, recorded by Edinburgh-based singer-songwriter, Jonathan Pennington-Twist, the advert centres around Margaret McGinty, from Paisley, who has been living with dementia for the past three years.
With over 90,000 people living with dementia across Scotland, the advert aims to promote a dementia-friendly Christmas where people living with dementia are supported and involved in the festivities. The unique tartan supports Alzheimer Scotland’s mission that nobody should face dementia alone this Christmas.
Anna Devine, Director of Fundraising and Marketing, Alzheimer Scotland, commented: “I’m really proud that we have been able to bring the spirit of our vibrant tartan to life on screen to honour people living with dementia everywhere. Despite not having budgets to the scale of businesses like John Lewis and their annual Christmas campaign, we have created something really honest for viewers. Featuring no actors and a moving soundtrack, the short online film is the most effective use of our resources and is a real first for our fundraising.
“Alzheimer Scotland is working hard every day to bring families together across communities to help ensure people living with dementia feel connected and are supported to live as long as possible with their families.”
The Alzheimer Scotland tartan is available in a variety of products from cosy scarfs to bonnie bunnets and braw bears. Visit www.alzscot.org/tartan to browse the tartan collection and share the magic of the Alzheimer Scotland tartan this Christmas. All funds raised from the vibrant tartan range will be invested back into vital community initiatives including Dementia Cafes, singing groups, allotments and reminiscence projects and including 24 Hour Helpline.
Talking about her involvement with the special tartan advert, Margaret McGinty, from Paisley, said: “I enjoyed taking part in the filming of the advert and meeting Jonty, he’s such a talented singer. I think the tartan scarfs are lovely and warm. Margaret added: “I have accepted my dementia diagnosis and I get on with things as best I can. I attend lots of social events with my Husband and I especially enjoy Alzheimer Scotland’s singing memories group where I just enjoy singing all the old familiar songs which bring back special memories for me.”
Jonathan Pennington-Twist, added: “Dementia seems such a heartless and isolating condition. To have ones own memory and function seep away must be frightening and heartbreaking, for people living with dementia and carers alike. The opportunity to help by way of something thoughtful and creative was a real privilege. I would hope my music is both resonant and intriguing to the listener.”
Join the conversation at #TartanChristmas and share your festive tartan memories.
Dementia affects over 90,000 people across Scotland and by 2020 it is estimated that there will be over 1 million people living with the illness in the UK. If you have any questions about dementia and of the services available in your area call Alzheimer Scotland’s 24 Hour Helpline on 0808 808 3000 or visit the website at www.alzscot.org
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