The event was introduced by Alzheimer’s Society ambassador, Angela Rippon, who spoke of her experiences caring for her mother who was diagnosed with dementia and died in 2009.
The strategy is a joint partnership document which sets out what is currently in place as well as what should be in place for people with dementia, and a framework for partners to use when planning services.
Taking place at the beginning of Dementia Awareness Week (18-24 May 2014), the event attracted more than 200 people, including staff from our Memory Assessment Service (MAS) who also took part in workshops to give advice, information and help about living with dementia.
Dr Aqil Chaudary,mental health lead for Birmingham Cross City CCG and one of our Trust governors, said: “This strategy has been created to improve the lives of more than 16,500 people in Birmingham and Solihull who are living with dementia. The title of the strategy ‘give me something to believe in’ is at the heart of this work, which is dedicated to ensuring people with dementia, their family and carers get the help and support they need.
“We know that more people are being diagnosed with dementia, so it’s crucial that the feedback we’ve received has been included and embedded in the strategy to improve people’s lives now and in years to come.”