Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Leeds Beckett University research aims to transform dementia services
Research from Leeds Beckett’s Centre for Dementia Research (CDR) was presented to inform the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Dementia’s latest inquiry into regional variation in dementia diagnosis rates in England.
The inquiry and subsequent report aimed to tackle the varying dementia diagnosis rates across the country, with statistics showing a significant difference between local authorities in England. For example rates in the areas with the highest and lowest diagnosis rates differ by 39.6% (Stoke-on-Trent 88.9%, Swindon 49.3% respectively).
Professor Sarah Smith, presented research from a study she led evaluating different models of memory assessment service provision across England and Wales to the APPG, which then uses uses evidence provided to inform their recommendations. Professor Smith’s research outlined the stark difference in models of memory assessment services provision across the country and provided insights into models and practices that can help to support increased diagnosis rates and effective post-diagnosis support
Professor Dr Sarah Smith said:
“Some local areas are doing incredible work to respond to local needs and secure early diagnosis and provide effective support for people with dementia.
“It is clear that there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach but the best practice is rooted in a deep understanding of local populations and really effective outreach into those communities.
“Local memory assessment services really need to get this approach right. This will also mean they’re well positioned to give patients the best advice over new drug treatments likely to be approved in the next few months."
The UK Government had set a diagnosis rate for England of 66.7%, but the actual rate declined to 61% during the pandemic, before recovering to 64.1% as of August 2023. Increasing diagnosis rates nationally, particularly in under-served groups remains a national priority.
In order to address the central issues covered by the inquiry, the APPG gathered evidence by asking for a written Call for Evidence for professionals and academics working on dementia and conducted a survey of more than 2,000 people living with dementia.
Professor Smith leads a programme of research within the Centre for Dementia Research at Leeds Beckett University, focusing on how to provide an improved experience for people with dementia at the point of diagnosis and more effective post-diagnostic support.
Professor Claire Surr, Director of the Centre for Dementia Research said:
“I’m delighted to see Thethe Centre team’s work was being recognised at a national level by the APPG and is one of many taskforces the Centre has been working on recently. Professor Smith is leading an important programme of work that is informing both national understanding of the issues surrounding dementia diagnosis and supporting positive practice development within Memory Assessment Services. I hope this report helps to drive the needed change to support access to a timely dementia diagnosis for all, not matter where a person lives."