Alzheimer's Society comment on EHRC report

The EHRC's interim report on home care has highlighted a number of issues including insufficient support to help people eat and drink, being left in bed for up to 17 hours between visits; and being left in soiled bedclothes. The full report is due to be published in autumn of this year.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'This report echoes the findings of our own research which shows the social care system is failing to meet the needs of many vulnerable people. People with dementia are some of the biggest users of social care, with many of the half a million currently living in the community needing help with everyday tasks such as eating, drinking and going to the toilet.'

'This research highlights instances of outrageous neglect. We know that care workers want to do a good job but they need further training, support and time to provide good quality care. This report once again underlies the urgent need for a workable social care funding system.'

Andrew Ketteringham
Director of External Affairs
Alzheimer's Society

• 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