Health professionals

Who are Alzheimer's Society?

Alzheimer's Society is the leading care and support research charity for people with dementia, their families and carers in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We provide information, education and support to help people live their lives to the full. We also fund research to improve the lives of people today and to find a cure.  

What does the General Practice Reference Group do?

The General Practice Reference Group provides a health professional perspective on a range of different issues relating to dementia. The group also contributes to research conducted by university partners. Previous consultations have included:

• Diagnosis rates
• GP dementia learning needs
• Local services
• Dementia research
• Brain donation

Some group members are also involved in our press work, research programmes and the development of new information resources.

What commitment is involved if I join?

Membership is not time-consuming. Members of the group are asked to offer feedback on Alzheimer's Society activities and proposals every other month by an email survey. There is the opportunity to meet as a group once a year to discuss wider issues. Reasonable, economy class travel expenses and mileage are reimbursed for travel to this meeting.

What are the benefits of joining?

While there is no financial renumeration for joining the group, membership will present the following benefits:

• You will directly contribute to the development of resources which support people living with dementia, and their families
• You will find out more about the work we currently do, and the services available to support you in your local area
• You will advise a national charity on how to effectively engage with health professionals
• If you are interested, you can support other areas of Alzheimer's Society work, including research, media, policy and service development
• You can log your work with us as part of your annual Personal Development Plan

What if I decide to leave the group?

Membership in the Reference Group is optional. You can leave at any point, though ideally you would commit to at least 6 or 12 months of membership.

How can I find out more?

Email the team for more information.