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New service delivers support to those living with the effects of dementia |
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A new service has been launched in Sandwell that provides advice, information, and support across the borough for anyone living with the effects of dementia or a memory concern.
Sandwell Community Dementia Service has been commissioned by Sandwell Council and the NHS Black Country & West Birmingham Clinical Commissioning Group to deliver the service.
The service comprises nine local voluntary sector organisations, with the lead provider being Crossroads Caring for Carers. The partner organisations are: • Age UK Sandwell • Agewell CIC • Alzheimer’s Society • BUDS (Better Understanding of Dementia for Sandwell) • Dementia Pathfinders CIC • Murray Hall Community Trust • St Albans Community Association, and • West Bromwich African Caribbean Resource Centre.
The service is also available to the families and carers of those living with dementia or a memory concern.
Referrals can be made by calling 0121 726 8543, or by emailing care.vn4m2@nhs.net
Following a referral, a Dementia Navigator will establish the individual’s requirements before assigning an adviser based in one of Sandwell’s six towns. They will be assisted by a Specialist Dementia Adviser supporting young on-set and rarer dementia, as well as the Dementia Connect out-of-hours service.
What is dementia?
According the NHS website, dementia is a syndrome associated with an ongoing decline of brain functioning. There are many different causes of dementia, and many different types.
Dementia symptoms may include problems with: • memory loss • thinking speed • mental sharpness and quickness • language, such as using words incorrectly, or trouble speaking • understanding • judgement • mood • movement • difficulties doing daily activities.
Councillor Suzanne Hartwell, Sandwell Council’s cabinet member for adults, social care and health, said: “Living with dementia or worries about your health can be very challenging and result in feelings of loneliness and isolation. Sandwell Community Dementia Service will work with individuals to seek a clear and early diagnosis of their condition, before delivering tailored interventions, helping people to make informed decisions about the support and care they receive.”
Councillor Maria Crompton, Deputy Leader, said: “We want the people of Sandwell to live well for longer. We are working with our voluntary and community sector partners to create community-based opportunities – such as Sandwell Community Dementia Service – that will ensure the support is in place so that our residents can live healthy lives with their friends and families.” Sandwell Community Dementia Service opening hours are 8:30am-4:30pm, Monday-Thursday; Friday 8:30am-4:00pm. For out-of-hours, evenings, and weekends, please call Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Connect on 0333 150 3456. |