• THIS Dementia Action Week is an important opportunity to reflect on how we can best help people affected by this terrible disease.

Last year, Labour councillors pledged to make the council dementia-friendly. Since then, we have been exploring how we can further raise awareness and support people affected by dementia.

Around 1,030 people aged 65 and over in Islington have been diagnosed with dementia. An estimated further 293 people have dementia but have not been diagnosed, meaning they struggle to access appropriate support. We are exploring with health partners how we can further improve diagnosis rates.

I know what it is like to live with dementia. My husband was diagnosed five years ago. It has been a difficult journey and the support of friends, family and the Alzheim­er’s Society has been invaluable.

The society runs the local Cecelia’s Café and Singing for the Brain sessions, excellent sources of support. This is in addition to our excellent community centres and day centres.

This council is committed to ensuring all residents, including those with dementia, live healthy and fulfilling lives. We will continue to campaign for the NHS, one of this country’s proudest achievements, to remain publicly owned and publicly accountable.

CLLR JANET BURGESS
Labour executive member for health and social care, Islington Council