Helping Sunderland navigate memory difficulties and dementia

Healthwatch Sunderland is helping improve access to local information with the launch of a new booklet designed to support people living with memory difficulties and dementia, as well as their carers and families. 

The key aim of the booklet is to provide practical guidance and signposting for individuals at all stages of their journey – for those with memory difficulties, diagnosed with dementia, to carers and loved ones, and those planning for later life, including end-of-life care all in one place. 

With an estimated 1,392 people in Sunderland living with dementia, according to Alzheimer’s Research UK, this new resource is expected to make a meaningful impact across the community - empowering those affected with clear information to feel more confident, better supported, and less isolated. 

As part of their engagement work, Healthwatch Sunderland listened to local carers who shared heartfelt stories about the challenges they face supporting loved ones living with dementia, from that work a pattern became apparent. 

Anna Gillingham, Project Lead for Healthwatch Sunderland said: “A common theme that emerged from the engagement was the difficulty in accessing clear and timely information following a diagnosis. 

“Many carers had said they felt uncertain about where to turn for support and were unaware of the services and resources available to them locally. 

“This booklet has been developed with involvement from those local carers and support services in Sunderland, in response to the uncertainty and is a complete one stop shop that explains where you can get support locally that can help you to live your life well.” 

Healthwatch Sunderland is the independent champion for people who use health and social care services in Sunderland.

They want to understand the needs, experiences and concerns of those who use health and care services and speak out on their behalf. 

To access the booklet you can visit here.

To request a printed copy, email: healthwatchsunderland@pcp.uk.net  

Pioneering Care Partnership (PCP) is proud to deliver Healthwatch to the people of Sunderland.