"Dementia is the biggest health and social care issue of our time" - James White, Head of National Influencing, Alzheimer's Society

Among the leading causes of death, dementia is the fastest-rising health condition in the UK, presenting the most substantial long-term health challenge. A recent report led by University College London and published in The Lancet Public Health reveals a startling projection: by 2040, up to 1.7 million people could be living with dementia in England and Wales. This figure is 40% higher than previously estimated, underlining the added strain on our already-stretched health and social care systems.

With the ageing population and a growing need for appropriate and accessible dementia care, it is essential that adequate actions are taken to ensure access to standardised support services, diagnostic services, and community support networks. Care homes and hospitals must aim to integrate their care approaches, and health and social care practitioners must come together to share best practices and innovative solutions to address these complex challenges effectively. In response to those complex factors, the Government introduced the Major Conditions Strategy in August 2023 with an aim to revolutionise the current landscape of dementia care.

However, there are many other challenges that those living with dementia and their carers are facing. Unequal access to dementia services, the lack of understanding of the needs of those from minority backgrounds, systemic structures that heavily rely on family members for care provision and the limited support available for carers are all having an impact on the wellbeing of dementia patients and their families.

The Institute of Government & Public Policy's Second Annual Dementia Care Conference has been built around the key themes of quality of care, quality of life, addressing inequalities, prioritising wellbeing, and spreading innovation and best practices. The event will benefit from keynotes from organisations at the forefront of change (Dementia UK), personal stories (Peter Berry), as well as key case studies showcasing local collaboration, innovative approaches to diagnostics and service provision, and a holistic view on the dementia community with all its diversity.

Join us for the Second Annual Dementia Care Conference in 2024, which promises to be an invaluable platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and inspiration in the quest for improved dementia care. The event will bring together leading experts, healthcare professionals, researchers, caregivers, and advocates to explore the latest developments, best practices, and innovations in dementia care. Register your interest today to avoid missing out.