Dementia Charter of rights is needed to improve services says MSP

James Kelly, Labour MSP, led a debate on the issue at Holyrood.

He said: “In Glasgow alone, more than 8000 people suffer from dementia. That shows us the size and scale of the problem. From that point of view, it is important to reinforce the importance of rights for people with dementia and their carers.”

Mr Kelly said people need support and also to be able to carry on working where possible.

He added: “It is important to realise that dementia is something that people can start to suffer from at a younger age when they are still working, and that we have an older working population.

“People should be able to keep as much normality in their lives as possible, and continue to work.”

Mr Kelly recognised the national dementia strategy announced by the Scottish Government but said there is room to improve services and support even further and said rights-based approach would help.

He praised Tommy Whitelaw, a campaigner who has been arguing for improved support for dementia sufferers across Scotland.

Mr Kelly added: “The reality is that care is not always consistent throughout the country and not always of the quality we would like.”

He said that was the finding of Mr Whitelaw’s work.

The Evening Times has launched a year-long campaign to highlight dementia and the challenges it poses for those diagnosed with the condition, their families, carer and services required to make Glasgow a dementia friendly city.

Mr Kelly’s call for improved support was backed by MSPs from other parties.

Sandra White SNP MSP for Glasgow Kelvin told of her family’s own experience with dementia. She said: “My mother had dementia and my experience is that it is difficult. Sometimes, people do not know what to expect.

“Although employers and other professionals now know about it, lots of families did not know what to expect from dementia and were left to sink or swim without information.”

She said she was “proud” Glasgow had an ambition to be a dementia friendly city which she said would help many people.

Ms White added: “It will enable people who have dementia to enjoy the best quality of life in their communities and ensure that they are treated with dignity and respect.”

The Scottish Government launched its third National Dementia Strategy and the Public Health Minister, Maureen Watt said was taking a rights based approach. It is aimed at ensuring provision of support takes account of the individuals needs and personal circumstances.

The Government said it will also address the growing elderly population and people living with dementia as well as other chronic conditions.

She said: “Our shared vision is of a Scotland where people with dementia and those who care for them have access to timely, skilled and well co-ordinated support, from diagnosis to end of life, that helps to achieve the outcomes that matter to them.”

Ms Watt said the government would consult on a carer’s charter.