Mark Pawsey, MP for Rugby and Bulkington has joined the launch of Alzheimer’s Society’s new campaign, Fix Dementia Care. The campaign calls for improvements in hospital care for people living with dementia and is looking at the different ways in which hospitals and care homes can support those who have dementia. The campaign launch was joined by Kevin Whately, star of “Lewis” and “Auf Wiedersehen, Pet,” who has been an ambassador for the Alzheimer’s Society since 2007.
An Alzheimer’s Society investigation which found too many people with dementia are falling while in hospital and being discharged at night. The report also examines the ways in which hospitals are able to improve the care available for dementia patients, through working more closely with local authorities to deliver continuity of care.
Speaking after the event, Mark said:
“Many of my constituents have contacted me about the challenges they face with dementia and the impact it can have on families. Improvements in the way we assess and support those with dementia is an important issue and I was very pleased to be able to talk to the Alzheimer’s Society about these matters and their campaign, Fix Dementia Care. It was also very valuable to hear from Kevin Whately about his experience looking after a family member with Alzheimer’s.”
Mark continued:
“I know that there is more work to do, but having had the opportunity to visit some of the care homes in Rugby it is clear that we have a very high quality of care locally. I am pleased that the Government has prioritised dementia care, with £50 million invested in creating dementia friendly environments in care homes and hospitals.”
George McNamara, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at Alzheimer’s Society added:
“We are delighted to have been able to engage with Mark on this vital issue. He has a huge influence in Rugby and Bulkington and we hope Mark will use this opportunity to help improve the care for people living with dementia.”