Scotmid has revealed a new charity partnership with Alzheimer Scotland.
The launch was accompanied by a giant walk-through inflatable brain named ‘Babs’ in honour of Dame Barbara Windsor, who died in 2020 of Alzheimer’s disease.
As part of the 12-month partnership, Alzheimer Scotland will take ‘Babs’ on a Big Brain Tour of Scotland, visiting stores as well as community venues. At each stop, people can step inside the inflatable to learn how different areas of the brain work, enjoy interactive activities, and make their own personal brain health pledge.
The partnership was officially launched at Scotmid’s HQ in Newbridge, Edinburgh, on 17 September, where colleagues and pupils from local Hillwood Primary School were among the first to experience Babs the Brain. Dame Barbara’s widower and dementia campaigner, Scott Mitchell, also attended the event.
Henry Simmons, Alzheimer Scotland’s Chief Executive, said: “Alzheimer Scotland is delighted to be embarking on this charity partnership with Scotmid.
“We see this as the start of a shared mission to empower people of all ages to protect their brain health, reduce their risk of dementia, and help make sure that nobody faces dementia alone.
“This partnership gives us a unique opportunity to expand the work we do by finding creative ways to empower communities across Scotland, northern England and Northern Ireland to look after their brain health.
“Not only will we raise vital funds, we will also leave a lasting legacy beyond this partnership of healthier habits, stronger connections, and better awareness of dementia prevention.”
Karen Scott, Scotmid’s Chief Executive, said: “We’re truly delighted to join forces with Alzheimer Scotland. This partnership isn’t just about fundraising – it’s about coming together with our communities to create real, positive change. By working hand in hand, we hope to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by dementia across Scotland.”
Scott Mitchell, who was appointed People’s Champion for the Dame Barbara Windsor Dementia Goals programme, said: “Babs the Brain and the brain health prevention work Alzheimer Scotland will be doing alongside it is a wonderful legacy for Barbara and something she would be proud to put her name to. I have no doubt she would have treated us to one of her famous giggles for the name alone.”
Other initiatives planned for the coming year include in-store ‘brain healthy’ shopping experiences, from recipe cards to highlighting ‘brain-boosting choices’.
Funds raised will also support Alzheimer Scotland’s STARS: My Amazing Brain schools project, which brings brain health education to children and families nationwide.
