Secretary of State’s announcement on long-term plan for the health service

The Secretary of State for Health, Jeremy Hunt MP, will today announce proposals to change the basic NHS model from one centred on hospital care to one that helps people stay healthy and happy at home.

Responding to this, Jeremy Hughes, Chief Executive of Alzheimer's Society, said:

'The Government is right to focus on improving out of hospital care. Nowhere is this more needed than for people with dementia. Unable to access support at home, many people with dementia are forced in to hospital by default rather than choice. This has a huge cost, both financial and in terms of wellbeing. We need to prioritise supporting people at home, preventing the crises, rather than just picking up the pieces afterwards.'

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Notes to editors:

225,000 will develop dementia this year, that's one every three minutes
Alzheimer's Society research shows that 850,000 people in the UK will have a form of dementia by 2015. In less than ten years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to two million people by 2051
Dementia costs the UK economy over £26 Billion per year. This is the equivalent of more than £30,000 per person with dementia.

Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them

Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk

Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0300 222 11 22 or visit alzheimers.org.uk

Press Office 08450 744 395 Email: press@alzheimers.org.uk

Founded in 1979 as the Alzheimer's Disease Society. Royal Patron: HRH Princess Alexandra, The Hon Lady Ogilvy KG GCVO, President Emeritus: Sir Jonathan Miller CBE, Chair: Dame Gill Morgan, DBE, Vice-Chair: Ann Beasley CBE, Honorary Treasurer: John Grosvenor FCA CPA, Chief Executive: Jeremy Hughes. Registered office: Devon House, 58 St Katharine's Way, London E1W 1LB. Registered charity no. 296645. A company limited by guarantee and registered in England no. 2115499.