Southern Cross Healthcare – Alzheimer's Society comment

The company, which has 750 care homes and 30,000 residents, recently reported half-year losses of £311m.  In total, a quarter of people with dementia live in care homes across the UK.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'Today's announcement of a temporary solution to ensure residents in Southern Cross care homes can remain in their homes is good news. We estimate that 20,000 of the 30,000 people living in these care homes have dementia. The possibility that you might have to move home is unsettling for anyone, but for people with dementia it can be traumatising and threaten their health and well being. We urge all involved to reach a permanent solution soon so that people with dementia can have certainty about where they can call home.'

'Across the wider landscape, the current system of funding social care is seriously failing people with dementia. It is vital the Dilnot Commission finds an alternative which no longer penalises people with the condition.'

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 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just ten 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