MP joins local charity to fight for fair deal for people living with dementia

Tim Farron has called upon local NHS chiefs to make sure that new funds are spent on improving support for people with dementia and for their carers.

Tim met with Angela Harvey (branch manager) and David Richardson (Trustee) of South Lakes Alzheimers Society to discuss issues facing people with dementia in the South Lakes.

Late last year the government awarded £1.5million in extra funds for Cumbria to help support people with dementia. This money was given to NHS Cumbria, however, Mr Farron is concerned that so far there have been no tangible benefits from this money. "The extra money should not go to filling existing funding gaps" said Tim, "It's vital that we see new support as a result of this hard-won extra funding. People with dementia and their carers should be able to see real improvements - such as memory clinics, enhanced day care provision, awareness raising, early detection and advice and mentoring for carers."

Tim has today put down a parliamentary question to Andy Burnham, the Secretary of State for Health, to ask him to detail the new services that this money will provide.

Tim Farron, who is also the Vice Chair of the national All Party Parliamentary Group on Dementia, added:

"The Alzheimers Society do outstanding work raising awareness about this cruel disease. Their practical support for people living with dementia and for their loved ones who care for them, is wonderful. I'm delighted to support them in their bid to ensure that new resources are provided to ensure real improvements."