Alzheimer's Society Campaigners' Network

Campaign Group Lead, Suffolk

Why do I campaign?

Following my mother's admission to a dementia assessment unit after we had reached a crisis point I came into contact with other family carers. They encouraged me to become involved with the East Suffolk branch following which I was recruited to the then 'branch development committee'. The branch were then discussing various issues around gaps in services and how to raise awareness of these to the right people and decided to set up a local campaign group in 2008 to take this forward. In 2010 we became the Suffolk Campaign Group with myself as Campaign Lead.

I was not previously aware of the work of Alzheimer's Society and if I had been I would have been more aware of the support and services available and more able to improve my mother's quality of life. I became involved in campaigning to help make a difference so that others are better informed and supported to help them get the best care and support available tailored to the needs of the person with dementia and their families. 

What does my role involve?

As well as ongoing work related to 'Worried about your Memory' (encouraging early diagnosis) and 'Counting the Cost/This is Me' campaigns (hospitals), myself and the group are also following up on some problems relating to 'Care at Home' services and some specific local issues relating to the National Dementia Strategy and cuts in local services. We regularly liaise with GPs, local authorities, Primary Care Trusts, Mental Health Trusts, Acute Hospital Trusts, libraries, local media and politicians.

What skills and qualities does a campaigner need to have?

Enthusiasm, passion, good communication and the ability to be a diplomatic 'pain in the neck' - like a dripping tap that keeps going until someone pays attention!