Public Accounts Committee criticises lack of dementia priority
Published 16 March 2010
There is a wide gulf between what the Department of Health keeps saying it is going to do about dementia services and what it actually does, according to Edward Leigh MP, Chairman of the Committee of Public Accounts.
Mr Leigh was speaking as the Committee published its report on the management of the National Dementia Strategy for England.
Alzheimer's Society comment
'Important steps have been made since the publication of the National Dementia Strategy but we know that in many areas dementia is still not a local priority. One million people will develop dementia in the next ten years. It is therefore essential that the NHS and local authorities implement the strategy in their area. People with dementia are facing a daily battle with this devastating condition and are being prevented from accessing the support and advice they need. We need action now.'
Andrew Chidgey
Head of Policy and Public Affairs
Alzheimer's Society
Ends
Notes to editors:
- One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
- Alzheimer's Society research shows that 700,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 20 years nearly a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051.
- Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them.
- Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
- Alzheimer's Society needs to raise money to help people live well with dementia today and for research to find a cure for tomorrow. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
- Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk
