Accolades for Alzheimer's in Charity Award win

The charity was commended for its campaigning and publicity achievements in raising awareness of dementia, a condition that affects more than 700,000 people in the UK.

Leading the fight against dementia, the Alzheimer's Society created the Hands off Dementia Drugs campaign, supported and publicised a major story line on Coronation Street, and published the milestone Dementia UK report.

Neil Hunt, chief executive of the Alzheimer's Society says:

'We are honoured and delighted to be awarded Disability Charity of the Year. This is great recognition of our extraordinary efforts to push dementia to the top of the public and political agenda. Our team of dedicated staff and volunteers work tirelessly and passionately to champion the rights of people living with dementia and those who care for them.

The award finalists were all extremely deserving. It is testament to the role of the third sector in providing a powerful voice and leadership in campaigning for the dignity and quality of life for people at the heart of these charities.'

The Charity Awards 2007, organised by Charity Finance magazine, recognise excellence in management and leadership of charities. The Alzheimer's Society was recognised in the disability field, along with finalists National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society and United Response.

For further information, contact the Alzheimer's Society press office.

Notes for editors

• 1 in 3 older people will end their lives with a form of dementia.
• 700,000 people in the UK are affected by 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.
• Dementia affects one in five people over 80 and one in 20 people over 65.
• The Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and those who care for them. The Alzheimer's Society works in England, Northern Ireland and Wales.
• As a charity, the Alzheimer's Society depends on the generosity of the public to help it care, research and campaign for people with dementia. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or by visiting http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/.
• The Alzheimer's Society Dementia Helpline number is 0845 300 0336 or visit http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/.