New pan-Essex dementia strategy launched

Plans to transform dementia care across Greater Essex have taken a step forward with the launch of a new joined-up countywide dementia strategy.

‘Let’s Talk Dementia’ has launched at an event at Chelmsford City racehorse. It builds on the pan-Essex mental health strategy announced in June 2017, a new Southend, Essex and Thurrock Dementia Strategy.

Nearly 20,000 people are estimated to be living with dementia in Essex, and this is predicted to increase to over 25,000 within the next ten years. Alongside this are those who are caring for someone with dementia, often over 50 hours a week. This is a challenge that local authorities and the NHS across Greater Essex are determined to tackle.

The new strategy sets out to transform dementia care across Greater Essex and has been designed with people who have experience of using dementia services in Greater Essex. It focuses on nine key priorities, including greater access to information and advice, timely diagnosis and support for carers.

John Spence, Essex County Council’s cabinet member for health and adult social care, said: “This new strategy signals a major shift for dementia in Greater Essex: we will be more joined up in delivering dementia services for our residents.

“It sets out our shared commitment with local authorities and the NHS to rethink our approach to dementia. Our vision for the future is one in which people living with dementia are recognised as unique individuals who are actively shaping their lives and their care whilst being able to remain as physically and emotionally healthy as long as possible.

“Working closely with our partners, communities, families and carers, schools and businesses, and the voluntary and community sector over the next five years, we know how important it is to deliver this ambitious strategy to ensure people live well with dementia.”