People with dementia must not be overlooked by Mental Health Strategy

The aim of the strategy is to give a new emphasis on early intervention and prevention to tackle the underlying causes of mental ill-health.

The plans, announced by Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, Health Minister Andrew Lansley and Care Services Minister Paul Burstow, include an additional £400million investment to improve access to modern, evidence-based psychological therapies over the next four years.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'People with dementia are all too often let down by services that fail to meet their needs. On top of this, they can face a double whammy of discrimination because of the stigma attached to mental health conditions and ageism. The Mental Health Strategy has the power to tackle both these issues head on and transform lives.'

'There are 750,000 people living with dementia in the UK and this number is expected to hit a million within 10 years. We must ensure people with dementia are not overlooked by this strategy and that this cash injection helps improve access to psychological services and reduce stigma for people of all ages, living with all mental health conditions.'

Andrew Chidgey
Head of Policy and Public Affairs
Alzheimer's Society

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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