IT is difficult to imagine a more terrible condition than dementia.

It bewilders those who suffer from it, bringing misery through confusion, and also takes a huge toll on the families and friends of those affected.

That is why it is vital that there is a national debate on dementia to encourage everyone to play their part in helping people with the condition to live as happy and fulfilled lives as possible.

A new campaign launched by Public Health England and the Alzheimer’s Society – which we report on page six today – is a good, constructive step forward towards achieving this aim.

It has been backed by celebrities – including Southampton’s own Fiona Phillips, who knows only too well the misery that the disease can cause, having watched both her parents suffer with it – and Hampshire County Council.

The county should be commended for doing its bit to create dementia-friendly communities across the county through its Dementia Friendly Hampshire programme.

Already 150 businesses and services in the county have committed their support and four dementia-friendly high streets are up and running. More work is needed but it is an encouraging start.