Tony Robinson appeals to Radio 4 listeners

Tony Robinson shares his family's personal experience of dementia in support of Alzheimer's Society.

Society Ambassador Tony Robinson is the voice of our BBC Radio 4 appeal in January, speaking about the need to change the way society treats older people, and improve services in care homes for people with dementia.

In the moving appeal, Tony describes the difficult journey of taking his mother, who had dementia, into a care home for the first time.

'Every week, hundreds - maybe even thousands - of us set off on what is undoubtedly one of the worst car journeys of our lives. I know. I've done it myself I drove my mum, who had dementia, to a care home and left her there, in the hands of strangers. I didn't want to, but the problems surrounding her care had become overwhelming. It's a common story isn't it?'

Following this experience, Tony became an Alzheimer's Society ambassador. He describes his role as a 'storyteller', explaining to others how dementia affects everyone in a family.

The appeal will be broadcast on Sunday, 6 January at 7.55am and 9.25am and will also be repeated on Thursday, 10 January at 3.25pm. You can also listen to Tony's appeal on the BBC website during the appeal week.

BBC Radio 4's You and Yours will also feature an interview with Tony as part of their season on social care. This can be heard on 15 January at 12noon.

If you have concerns about Alzheimer's disease or about any other form of dementia, the Alzheimer's Society national helpline can provide information, support, guidance and referrals to other appropriate organisations.

The number to call is 0845 300 0336.

You can also contact the helpline via our online form.

We are campaigning to ensure that people with dementia and their carers are able to access high quality care services.

Find out more about our Putting Care Right campaign.