Alzheimer's Society Comment On New Report On Individual Budgets, UK

Main Category: Alzheimer's / Dementia
Article Date: 22 Oct 2008 - 5:00 PDT

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Individual budgets can give people more choice, flexibility and control over their personal care, according to a pilot scheme evaluation report launched today by Care Services Minister Phil Hope.

The independent evaluation was conducted by a combined team of five university research units. It found that individual budgets had particular benefits for mental health service users and younger disabled people.

Alzheimer's Society comment,

Individual budgets have the potential to give people more choice and control over their care and make more effective use of resources. However, the system will only work hand in hand with access to information which allows people to make informed decisions. People need a named professional who can help navigate a complex and confusing system and get access to the best quality care.

The social care system is already buckling under the strain of dementia. With the numbers of people living with the condition set to soar, personalisation can only work if it works for people with dementia.

Neil Hunt
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society

About Alzheimer's Society

Alzheimer's Society is the leading care and research charity for people with all forms dementia and their carers. It provides information and education, support for carers, and quality day and home care. It funds medical and scientific research and campaigns for improved health and social services and greater public understanding of dementia.

Alzheimer's Society provides a national help line on 0845 3000 336 and website http://www.alzheimers.org.uk. Please include this information in any publication that uses these comments.

Alzheimer's Society