Scottish Borders local dementia strategy ‘Our Plan’ now available

We are delighted to share 'Our Plan' - Local dementia strategy with you which was approved by the Integration Joint Board this summer and sets out a five year plan for dementia services in the Scottish Borders Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP).

The strategy has been co-produced by people living with dementia and their carers to improve access to services and timely review. It hasfour main themes which relate to care provision, educational initiatives, policy and empowering dementia friendly communities: 

·       Prevention and early intervention

·       Community focused and responsive services

·       Person centred services for people living with dementia and their carers

·       Evidenced based care, services and support

The full dementia strategy can be accessed here.

Christine Proudfoot, Nurse Consultant/Strategic Dementia Lead for the Health and Social Care Partnership said: “This is our first five year dementia strategy that will set the direction of what people living with dementia can expect and to support service development.”

Councillor Elaine Thornton-Nicol, Champion for Older People said: “This five year plan represents the significant commitment that exists between partners across the Borders in terms of working together to provide vital care and support services for people living with dementia and their carers. I especially welcome the fact that it has been co-produced by people living with dementia and their carers to ensure that their voices are heard and their experience taken into account. I now look forward to seeing the aims and objectives of this much needed strategy being put into practice for the benefit of these individuals and the wider communities they live in.”

Chris Myers, Chief Officer of the Health and Social Care Partnership said: “Dementia affects a huge number of people in the Scottish Borders. I am delighted to present this strategy that complements our new Health and Social Care Strategic Framework with its focus on early intervention and prevention, improving access to services, supporting unpaid carers and improving our effectiveness for people with dementia and their carers.”