New advice service for dementia sufferers in Cumbria

The Alzheimer’s Society in Cumbria has been chosen as one of 22 organisations that will trial new dementia services across the UK. Trained dementia advisers will offer advice and improved access to sources of information and support to patients, their carers and families throughout Cumbria. Other kinds of new support networks will be trialled by an additional 18 organisations nationwide. The work is part of the National Dementia Strategy’s long-term plans to improve services for dementia sufferers and to ensure that adequate services are put in place to deal with the demands of the UK’s ageing population. The Cumbrian branch of the Alzheimer’s Society welcomes its involvement in the new services, describing it as ‘...the beginning of an exciting period of transformation in dementia care as we begin to see the promises of the National Dementia Strategy put in action.’ Care services minister Phil Hope added: ‘This is the beginning of real change. We know that people with dementia and their families are under huge strain. Dementia advisors will be there for them when they need help, from diagnosis onwards.’