Blunkett pledges support
Published 13 November 2007
Former home secretary David Blunkett paid his first visit to the Sheffield branch in his new capacity as patron on 16 May.
The MP for Sheffield gave his commitment to support staff in their efforts to improve local services for people with dementia.
Branch manager Judith Gregory and information, advice and support services manager Andrea Welch told Mr Blunkett about the current problems facing people with dementia and their families locally.
Concerns raised included fears about the lack of continuity of local services due to uncertainty over funding.
The future of a community outreach service for younger people with dementia was used as an example, as it depends on a carer's grant from the Department of Health to keep going.
The life span of the grant comes to an end in 2008, and it has not yet been confirmed if it will be renewed.
Judith said,
'David shared our concerns about the issue of funding.
He was very interested about the real problems people face, and showed particular interest in the plight of families.
The visit went very well, and he said he would speak to various people to highlight the issues we raised.'
