A community dementia service which is helping people affected by the condition in Suffolk access support more easily is in the running for a national award.
Dementia Together has been shortlisted in the category ‘CCG and Local Authority Integrated Commissioning for Carers’ in the Health Service Journal (HSJ) Awards 2017.
Launched in April this year, Dementia Together can be accessed online or through a single freephone telephone number and offers personalised advice and information to people at all stages of the illness, as well as families and carers.
Commissioned by NHS Ipswich and East Suffolk and NHS West Suffolk clinical commissioning groups and Suffolk County Council, the project is led by Sue Ryder, working with local organisations.
Dr Roz Tandy, GP and dementia lead for NHS West Suffolk Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “It is certainly pleasing that this new partnership approach to delivering dementia care and support has received national recognition.
“Since its launch almost 500 people have used the service and we know from feedback that it is making a positive difference to the lives of those living with and affected by dementia.
“When the service was being developed we heard from patients, families and carers that they were overwhelmed by the range of help available and were unsure of whom to approach. This new service has removed that uncertainty by bringing all that expertise to one easily accessible place.
“I am proud of the success of Dementia Together and how it is helping people live well with dementia for longer.”
Cllr Beccy Hopfensperger, Suffolk County Council’s cabinet member for adult care, said it was great to see the scheme recognised at a national level.
She added: “Dementia Together has been innovative and successful while also being a clear example of us protecting our most vulnerable people.”
Jo Marshall, Sue Ryder Neurological Centre director, said: “It’s been great to see how the idea of a single point of contact and joined up working with other organisations is clearly benefiting people with dementia and their carers. We are delighted to have been recognised by the HSJ awards at such an early stage of the service.”
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