New Isle of Wight Dementia Strategy launched

More than 80 people came together to celebrate the launch of a new strategy that will help thousands of people across the Island living with dementia.

The Isle of Wight Dementia Strategy was unveiled last Friday (20 May) at a public event hosted by Alzheimer Cafes IW at the Independent Arts Creative Hub in Newport High Street.

Taking place during Dementia Action Week (May 16-22), the event was an opportunity for people with lived experience of dementia and their families to find out more about the changes and improvements the new system-wide plan will seek to implement.

Alzheimer Cafe IW, Carers IW, Age UK IW, Healthwatch Isle of Wight and Independent Arts worked tirelessly to ensure the voices and views of people with lived experience, and their carers, were at the heart of the strategy which will act as a blueprint for change.

They also led the work with the Isle of Wight Council, the Isle of Wight NHS Trust, the CCG and Mountbatten to develop a joint vision for improving dementia services and making the Isle of Wight a place where people with dementia can live safe and fulfilling lives.

There is an estimated 2,655 people over the age of 65 living with dementia on the Island and it is estimated that the figure will increase to 3,920 by 2030.

Councillor Karl Love, Cabinet member for adult social care, said: "We believe that the more we engage and plan together with those who need our support, the better the quality of life we can help them achieve.

"We would therefore like to thank our partners who have shaped the strategy's development, the many contributors to it and in particular our Island residents who have shared their personal experiences to help improve services and outcomes for others."