Barbara has called on the Government to take action to improve the support available for people living with dementia and their unpaid family carers.

Speaking at a debate in Parliament, Barbara highlighted the fact that families of people living with dementia are reporting challenges in finding the services and expertise to provide the care and support needed. She said that this was making it more difficult for carers to accept practical help or take essential ‘respite’ breaks. Barbara wants the Government needs to act to improve the support available.

Barbara said:

“Dementia is one of the greatest care challenges facing our country. It is a deeply distressing condition. In Worsley and Eccles South it is estimated that almost 1,200 people are living with dementia. It is essential that we work toward finding the cure but equal emphasis must be placed on the care provided to people with dementia and the support given to their families and carers.”

“A recent survey of carers of people with Dementia found that only 2% believed that all hospital staff understood the specific needs of people with dementia. Paid care workers have also raised concerns that their low pay leads to short care visits which mean that they are unable to provide people living with dementia with dignified care. We must ensure that people with dementia receive the highest standards of care wherever they are, whether that is in hospital, in a care home, or at home.”

“I hope that Government Ministers will listen and take the action that is needed to improve the help and support that is available for people living with dementia, and their family carers.”