Our Mission

Dementia is one of the most pressing public health challenges of our time, with its prevalence steadily increasing as life expectancy rises. In the UK alone, over 900,000 people are currently living with dementia, and this figure is expected to surpass 1 million by 2030. Dementia has been the leading cause of death in the UK for the past decade, accounting for around 75,000 deaths in 2023 alone. As diagnostic tools improve and the population ages, the number of people affected by dementia will continue to grow, highlighting the urgent need for sustained and enhanced support services.

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The Dementia Gateway is a vital lifeline for individuals living with dementia and their families, providing essential support, care, and guidance. There is a proposal to close the Crystal Gateway and merge Dementia Day Centres with the Day Centres for those living with profound, lifelong physical disabilities. We are hugely concerned about the lack of dignity that will be afforded to all in this scenario and the damage to the mental health of those who could be subjected to unintentional harmful comments, or even worse. This will also see the end of Daye Centres which will allow for carers too get some much needed and deserved respite.

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At a time when Dementia is more prevalent than ever within our communities, it is incumbent upon the council to protect these vital services. Any reduction in Dementia Care and support at this juncture would be irresponsible and would be a disservice to our most vulnerable residents and their families.

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We are calling on the Council to rethink their recent budget cut and asking them to keep our Dementia Gateway open. They provide invaluable support to those living with dementia and their carers and help people live independently for longer. Removing services such as this only serves to force people to consider respite and residential care earlier, which is devastating for families and not mention represents an even higher financial cost to the council than retaining a Day Centre.

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Please join our fight to save this precious service!