Family Solicitors

City of York Council has announced that residents in York care homes could receive faster access to dementia support services, as a result of a new trial to improve diagnosis rates.

The council is working with the Vale of York Clinical Commissioning Group (VoYCCG) and Dementia Forward to trial a new scheme to provide support and education for care home staff, enabling them to screen residents for dementia.

A dementia diagnosis previously required a patient with dementia symptoms to visit their GP or hospital, meaning that many people did not receive information and support about their condition as early as possible.

The 12-month project is currently being trialled in eight care homes across the city. Early results show that diagnosis rates have increased significantly – and the pilot will be rolled out to other public sector and private care homes across the city over the next few months.

Key staff at the care homes are trained how to use a national screening tool developed by Dementia Forward, before using it to assess their residents.

If an individual is assessed as having dementia, they and their families and carers can then be offered information and advice about the condition, as well as support available locally.

The Alzheimer’s Society toolkit This is Me will also be used to help care workers support the resident in their care home.

A spokesperson for City of York Counci saidl:

“We know that early dementia diagnosis can make it easier for the individual and their family and carers to get the right help and support as soon as possible – and help them live with the condition.

“We hope that this pilot will further improve diagnosis rates in York, supporting our aim to make York a Dementia Friendly City.”

Dr Louise Barker from the Vale of York CCG added:

“I am delighted that this important project is now being trialled locally.

“For someone with dementia, changes such as moving to an unfamiliar place or meeting new people who contribute to their care can be unsettling or distressing.

“This training is helping care workers to build a better understanding of the person they are caring for – and, in turn, enhance the support they provide.”

Jill Quinn from Dementia Forward also said:

“We are delighted to be part of a project that joins everything up – we are working with care home staff, GPs, residents and their families.

“One of the most rewarding aspects has been the support we can provide to families – and anything that raises awareness and improves dementia support is a positive thing.”

Duncan Lewis Family Solicitors

Duncan Lewis family solicitors can advise on care of elderly and vulnerable family members – including children taken into Local Authority care, SEND and Court of Protection cases involving vulnerable adults or children.

There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide – and our family lawyers can advise on family matters such as divorce or child care under the laws of England and Wales or Islamic law.

Duncan Lewis is also able to advice on wardship, lasting power of attorney and wills and trusts.

For expert legal advice on family and child care law, call Duncan Lewis family solicitors on 0333 772 0409.