SANDRA GIDLEY MP JOINS ALZHEIMER'S SOCIETY AMBASSADOR TONY ROBINSON IN CALL TO IMPROVE DEMENTIA CARE

12.00.00am GMT Thu 7th Feb 2008

Local MP and Lib Dem Shadow Health Minister, Sandra Gidley, is joining forces with Alzheimer's Society ambassador and actor Tony Robinson for the launch of an essential guide supporting people with dementia and their carers across the region. Putting Care Right - Your guide to choosing a care home, will be available to people across Southampton and Hampshire and lists the essential issues and which questions to ask in the search for a care home.

Mrs Gidley joined Tony Robinson, people with dementia, carers and volunteers at an Alzheimer's Society reception in Westminster as part of the Putting Care Right campaign for better quality care for people with dementia.

Commenting from the reception, Sandra said:

"This guide is an essential way of supporting local people living with dementia and their carers. Two thirds of people in care homes have dementia yet only a small proportion of staff have any formal training. It is shocking to think that many people with dementia are not being looked after by properly trained staff. We need to ensure all care homes deliver the highest quality care to support some of the most vulnerable people in our society."

Alzheimer's Society's new booklet 'Putting Care Right - Your guide to choosing a care home' is available to anyone beginning their search for a good care home. The pocket-sized guide sets out the essential issues to consider, such as the involvement of friends and family and activities on offer. It includes space for notes on the different care homes people visit.

Alzheimer's Society Ambassador Tony Robinson said:

"Choosing the right care home is very important. From the way people talk to each other to the chance to enjoy everyday activities like sharing a meal, cooking and washing up, there are many factors to consider when it comes to finding a quality care home for people with dementia. This guide will help people spot a good care home straight away. It's a guide no one should be without.

Putting Care Right - your guide to choosing a care home is available to download at http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/puttingcarerightguide or by contacting the Dementia Helpline on 0845 3000 336.

Sandra Gidley MP and Tony Robinson promote "Putting Care Right - your guide to choosing a care home" in Westminster

ENDS