EVESHAM’S MP Nigel Huddleston has supported a campaign to improve hospital care for people living with dementia.
The Mid Worcestershire MP joined more than 160 other MPs at the launch of Alzheimer’s Society’s ‘Fix Dementia Care’ campaign in Westminster on Wednesday, February 10.
He called for greater transparency across the NHS following an Alzheimer’s Society investigation which found too many people with dementia are falling while in hospital, being discharged at night or being marooned in hospital despite their medical treatment having finished.
Campaigners wants hospitals to publish an annual statement of dementia care, including feedback from patients with dementia. They also want the Care Quality Commission to include standards of dementia care in their assessments.
“Good hospital care for people with dementia should never be a throw of the dice, yet in some hospitals people are routinely experiencing the consequences of poor care,” said Mr Huddleston.
“Alzheimer’s Society were in Westminster to urge MPs to back their new Fix Dementia Care campaign to end the postcode lottery on the quality of hospital care people with dementia face.
“The first step to improving the issue across the country is greater transparency. Once we know where the shortcomings are we can take steps to tackle them,” he added.
George McNamara, head of policy and public affairs at Alzheimer’s Society said: “We’re delighted to have been able to engage more than 160 MPs in one day.
“Nigel has a huge influence in Mid Worcestershire and we hope he will use this opportunity to take action and improve the care for people living with dementia.”
Visit www.alzheimers.org.uk/fixhospitalcare to sign up to the campaign or for more information.
