Alzheimer's Society response to the Comprehensive Spending Review Re: an extra £2 billion for social care by 2014

He has also announced a 7.1% cut in local authority budgets (£33.6 billion).

'We welcome the fact that the Chancellor has identified dementia as a priority within health research as this area is desperately underfunded. We are also pleased that the importance of social care has been acknowledged, with additional money being pledged.'

'However, the cuts in local authority budgets mean there will still not be enough money, as the number of people with dementia and the cost continue to grow. This is likely to have a detrimental impact on the services that people with dementia and their carers receive.'

'In the current financial climate, dementia services are a key area where savings can be made. Tackling dementia will save on money, provide a better quality of life for people with the condition and avoid unnecessary cuts.'

Ruth Sutherland
Interim Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society

- Ends -

Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just 15 years 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 supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. 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