Launch of The Dementia Clinic, Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove & Here
The Dementia Clinic
This new not-for-profit paid-for service is designed to reduce waiting times for individuals experiencing symptoms of dementia, ensuring timely diagnosis and support. The Dementia Clinic operates independently of the NHS - ensuring no impact on NHS capacity - and is delivered by Age UK West Sussex, Brighton & Hove (Age UK WSBH) in partnership with Here - a not-for-profit healthcare provider.
According to Age UK WSBH, there are currently just under one million people living with the condition in the UK, but more than a third are undiagnosed so aren’t accessing the information, advice or treatment they need. Those contacting the clinic will be able to find out about the range of support on offer locally, what to expect when seeking a diagnosis, or access practical help like dementia assessments, financial advice or care at home.
“The number of people with dementia is rising and a huge pool of people are undiagnosed. Our new dementia clinic aims to help tackle this and be there for anyone worried about memory loss in Brighton and the surrounding areas. We’re already dementia experts, offering a range of support and respite services locally. The new clinic is building on that, helping people with memory loss, no matter their circumstances.
"Facing a diagnosis can be frightening, so we want people to know they can turn to us, alongside their GP, if they are worried. You don’t have to face it alone.”
Helen Rice, CEO - Age UK WSBH
What does The Dementia Clinic offer?
The Clinic offers comprehensive memory assessments by experienced clinicians, including blood tests and scans if appropriate. In addition, ongoing support from Age UK WSBH is available to help patients and families navigate the process.
Who can access the service?
- Aged 65+
- Symptoms present for over 6 months
- No history of a learning disability diagnosis.
At this time, the following groups will not be able to access the service:
- Recent significant infection (within 3 months)
- Stroke (within 6 months)
- Significant head injury (within 12 months)
- Alcohol consumption above 14 units per week.
Patients can self-refer or be referred by their GP using the following channels:
- GP referrals via email: dementia@ageukwsbh.org.uk
- Self-referral by calling: 01903 79 2015
- In person at Age UK Brighton Hub, 95 Queens Road, Brighton, BN1 3XE
Age UK WSBH will assess each individual’s personal circumstances and support them accordingly. They might be living alone, seeking dementia assessment via the NHS and need help accessing disability benefits, or have close family support and want to take a paid for assessment route.
This is a paid-for service within the charity, but unlike other healthcare models, it aims only to cover its costs, rather than make a profit.
Downloads
Please download the following document to learn more.