Care Quality Commission chief executive to speak about dementia care at the Alzheimer's Show

The chief executive of Care Quality Commission will be one of the key speakers the Alzheimer’s Show next week.

The event, which will be held at the Royal Horticultural Halls in London on 19 and 20 April, is for carers and professionals working with people with dementia, as well family and friends of those with the condition.

David Behan will be joined by a variety of other speakers, including Professor Alistair Burns who is the national clinical director for dementia and Rebecca Wood from Alzheimer’s Research UK.

Mr Behan will speak about the care needs of people with dementia and the steps being taken to ensure a high quality of dementia care throughout the county. He will also talk about the national standards covering all aspects of care, including treating people with dignity and respect.

Nigel Ward, founder of the Alzheimer’s Show, said: “Care quality has been a major press topic and we thought it was important that we could provide visitors to the Alzheimer’s Show with the people who can not only answer their concerns, but also present to them solutions and options for good care that are already available.

“There is no one in the country who can match David Behan’s knowledge and commitment to driving forward high national standards of quality, safety and care for all vulnerable people - not just those with dementia – being cared for in hospitals, care homes or in their own homes.”

In addition to hearing talks from experts, guests will also be able to attend workshops by a variety of organisations, including Memory Bank, SweetTree and Care UK. Admiral Nurses will also be at the show and will be offering support and advice during one-to-one clinics. There will also be interactive Question Time events on both days of the show.

Speaking about the Alzheimer’s Show, which was set up in response to calls for greater support and understanding for people living with the condition, Mr Ward said: “For many, life becomes difficult and support can be hard to find.

“We understand that we are living in an era of austerity in public services and therefore the need for this event has been greater.”

Phyllida Law will be signing copies of her book ‘How Many Camels Are There in Holland? Dementia, Ma and Me’ on the first day of the show. Tickets are £9 in advance or £15 on the door.

For more information or to book tickets, visit alzheimersshow.co.uk.