THE Redbridge branch of the Alzheimer's Society played host to actress Jean Heywood recently as she visited a number of dementia support groups as part of her research for a role in the BBC drama series Dad.

Meeting people with dementia was central to the research Jean carried out for her role as a woman with Alzheimer's disease.

Jean stars alongside Richard Briers and Kevin Whately in the new drama which was broadcast recently as part of Comic Relief's Elder Abuse campaign.

The film tells the story of Larry James who has been caring single-handed for his wife Jeannie who has Alzheimer's disease. But when Larry falls and breaks an ankle his life with Jeannie abruptly changes forever. Jeannie is moved into a care home and Larry goes to stay with his son Oliver, his daughter-in-law Sandy and their teenage daughter.

Jean said: "My visit to the Alzheimer's Society in Redbridge helped me to see what living with dementia is like and gave me conviction in my performance.

"During the afternoon I spent at the branch I was able to observe people with dementia, talk to them and their carers. In the film there's a scene where Jeannie doesn't recognise her husband Larry and when he touches her arm she moves away. If I hadn't seen it I couldn't portray it," she added.

The Alzheimer's Society is one of several major charities supporting the campaign in the run-up to Friday's Red Nose Day.

Chief executive Neil Hunt said: "Support groups such as the ones visited by Jean Heywood are a lifeline for hundreds of people whose lives have been affected by dementia. The society has more than 250 branches across the country, each providing vital help and advice for people with dementia and their carers."

For information and advice on Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia call the Alzheimer's Society national helpline on 0845 300 0336 or log on to www.alzheimers.org.uk.