Bid to make Britain the 'global leader' in dementia diagnosis and research

An early diagnosis for dementia onset is the target of a new £90m Government funding package, announced today by Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt.

Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt

Pledging support for more research and looking to secure more action from the business community, the minister has set the target of diagnosing two-thirds of all people with dementia by this time next year.

Dementia campaigners are ever conscious that conditions like Alzheimer’s are often overlooked when symptoms first become apparent, while early intervention is crucial for fighting against the decline of cognitive ability and securing quality of life for as many years as possible.

Jeremy Hughes, chief executive of the Alzheimer's Society, is among those to welcome the announcement and echoes these sentiments, saying: “It is unacceptable that some people with dementia have to wait months to get a diagnosis. Today’s announcement is a positive step forward to increasing diagnosis rates and ensuring that no matter where you live you will receive a timely assessment.

“Too often we hear about a lack of suitable services available to people with dementia and their carers. We welcome the focus on post-diagnosis support which will provide a vital lifeline to thousands who are currently left in the dark, with nowhere to turn for advice or support.”

Announcing the new funding package, the health minister commented: “Dementia can be a horrific and heartbreaking disease, but it is my mission as Health Secretary to make this country the best place in the world to get a dementia diagnosis, as well as a global leader in the fight to find a cure.

“Today's package is about government, clinicians, business, society and investors coming together to raise our game on every front – from speedy diagnosis to compassionate care, and from help on our high streets to the quest for a cure.”

Part of the Government’s plans to secure more help from the business community and raise the profile of dementia within the public consciousness, is to name ‘Dementia Friends’ within high-street chains who will be responsible for championing the cause.