Charity condemns government’s ‘double blow’ for people with dementia

This follows an announcement that publication of the first ever National Dementia Strategy for England has been delayed.

Health Minister Dawn Primarolo revealed that in 2007-08 cancer research received £248.2 million from the Department of Health and Medical Research Council, while dementia research received £32.43 million.

The Government has also confirmed that the publication of the National Dementia Strategy for England, originally scheduled for October 2008, has also been delayed until the New Year.

Neil Hunt, Chief Executive of Alzheimer's Society, says,

'Half a million people with dementia living in England are waiting anxiously for a strategy that promises huge change. The news of a delay in publishing the strategy and the woefully inadequate amount spent on dementia research this year is a double blow.

'Dementia costs the UK more than heart disease, stroke and cancer combined yet we currently invest a pitiful amount in research to tackle it. If we want to see the same advances that we have seen in cancer treatment and care, we must invest more in dementia research and services. With the right investment, dementia can be defeated.

'Actions speak louder than words. The government must deliver on its promise to make dementia a national priority by publishing the strategy and committing more to dementia research.'

More information on National Dementia Strategy for England