Residents are being invited to help shape the future of dementia care as part of the development of the Wolverhampton Integrated Dementia Strategy 2025–2029.
The ambitious strategy aims to improve the lives of people living with dementia, their families, and carers by creating more joined up, compassionate, and effective services.
It brings together organisations including the City of Wolverhampton Council, the Black Country Integrated Care Board, OneWolverhampton, the Black Country Healthcare NHS Trust and the Wolverhampton Dementia Action Alliance.
Councillor Paula Brookfield, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, said: “Dementia affects nearly a million people in the UK, including approximately 3,600 in Wolverhampton, and, as a city, we are committed to doing more – and doing better – for those affected by this cruel disease.
“This new strategy will serve as an overarching framework to guide improvements in care, support, access, and community inclusion over the next 5 years.
“But we really need to hear the voices of local residents to make sure the strategy reflects real experiences and priorities. Whether you’re living with dementia, caring for someone who is, or working in health and social care, you can help shape services that truly meet the needs of people in our city.”
People can have their say at the Adult Voice and Choice meeting at Priory Green, Whitburn Close, Pendeford on Wednesday 24 September from 2 to 4pm, or the Wolverhampton Carer Support Team group meeting at West Park tea rooms on Thursday 25 September, from 11.30am to 1pm.
Councillor Brookfield added: “These sessions are all about bringing carers, families and anyone passionate about dementia support together to share their thoughts and help shape a strategy that works for everyone. Your input could make a real difference so please come along, take part, and help turn lived experience into lasting change.”
People who are worried about dementia can contact the Alzheimer’s Society for information and support either via the National Dementia Helpline on 0333 150 3456 or by visiting Alzheimer’s Society. For more information about the help and support available locally, please visit Dementia.
The Dementia Action Alliance brings together a range of local organisations which want to make Wolverhampton more dementia friendly, including businesses, emergency services, religious groups and education providers. For more information, please visit Dementia.