A CAMPAIGN to ensure no one in Cumbria is denied access to information, support and treatments following a dementia diagnosis has been launched by the Alzheimer’s Society.

The charity has carried out a survey which revealed that one in five people (21 per cent) affected by dementia in the county were given no information and support after a diagnosis.

The poll of people with dementia, carers and people with a family member or friend with dementia, reveals a desperate shortage of post-diagnosis support provision, with 90 per cent of those surveyed dissatisfied with the amount of information and support provided.

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The new Right to Know campaign has been launched to voice concerns of people affected by dementia, with 97 per cent of respondents agreeing that the Government should do more to support people who have a diagnosis.

 

It is estimated that 7,720 people in Cumbria are living with dementia, with only 55 per cent currently having a formal diagnosis.

Hazel Bayley, regional operations manager for Alzheimer’s Society in Cumbria, said: ‘Like entering a maze blindfolded, too many people with dementia are left without a guiding hand to help them come to terms with this debilitating, terminal condition. The Government has shown clear commitment to improving the lives of people with dementia and action is underway to improve diagnosis rates.

"However, we cannot escape the lack of support following a diagnosis which leaves vulnerable people adrift. People living with dementia tell us that with the right support they can live well and Alzheimer's Society is here to support them, but a bold commitment is also needed to reach all those in need.

‘We are urging the Government to ensure every person with dementia has access to a Dementia Adviser. The right support to comes to terms with and manage the condition should not depend on your postcode.’