Government announces new NHS dementia service funding

The government has announced a new commitment of ten million pounds in funding to reform the way in which dementia patients receive treatment.

Under new Department of Health plans, the money will be used to improve the provision of advice and support regarding NHS memory services, including local care and support infrastructure.

Funds will be used for the provision of follow-up and review services, including peer support, carers' needs assessments and forward planning advice, with local authorities and NHS trusts to decide how best to allocate the resources.

This coincides with the publication of data from a national audit that shows a rise in the prevalence of memory services for dementia patients across the UK in recent years.

Care services minister Paul Burstow said: "With access to the right services and support, people with dementia can continue to live well for many years. Memory services have a really important role to play in this."

Last month, the government launched a new national design challenge that aims to encourage the creation of products and services that will aid dementia patients and carers.