Alzheimer’s Society recognised as a producer of high quality health and social care information

The Information Standard quality mark was awarded after Alzheimer's Society met all the criteria necessary for producing safe and reliable health and social care information for a public audience. The quality mark will now be displayed on Alzheimer's Society literature and website to illustrate to the public that its information is of the highest standard.

Andrew Proctor, Head of Knowledge for Alzheimer's Society, said:

'For people affected by dementia, the Standard means that we have an enhanced system for producing information. Alzheimer's Society is now even better at supporting people to make informed decisions about health and social care, and legal and welfare matters.'

Research shows the majority of the general public (72%) believe that they would be better able to manage their own and their family's health if they have quick and easy access to health information they could trust*. The Information Standard, supported by the Department of Health, provides this kind of assurance.

Alzheimer's Society produces over 100 publications and has an extensive range of dementia content on its website. Involvement from people with dementia, their carers and dementia experts; a regular system for review and thorough sourcing of evidence all help ensure the information produced is trustworthy and reliable.

* Research reference: The Information Standard survey, November 2010

- Ends -

Notes to Editor

The Information Standard

• The Information Standard is a certification scheme for health and social care information. It is an independent scheme supported by the Department of Health.
• Any organisation that produces health and social care information can apply to join the scheme. If an organisation successfully meets the quality criteria of the standard and becomes certified, it can place the quality mark on its materials. 
• The quality mark is a quick and easy way for the public to identify reliable and trustworthy sources of information. The scheme's certified members are a mix of national charities, NHS organisations, voluntary, statutory and commercial organisations. 
• The scheme is growing as organisations are in the process of gaining certification.
• For further information please go to theinformationstandard.org
  

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