PM announces dementia mission in memory of Dame Barbara Windsor

The mission includes an additional £95m in research funding and appealing for a ‘Babs' army’ of volunteers to take part in clinical trials.

The UK’s largest dementia charity, Alzheimer’s Society responds to the PM’s commitment to tackle one of the greatest health challenges facing the UK.

Mark MacDonald, Associate Director of Advocacy and System Change at Alzheimer’s Society said:    

This breakthrough is very welcome news for the 900,000 people with dementia in the UK and every researcher working tirelessly to advance dementia diagnosis and treatments.

'Their work, as well as that of thousands of campaigners, has led us to this milestone. It’s a great step forward and we’re so pleased to see this tribute to the incredibly special Dame Barbara Windsor, whom Alzheimer’s Society was honoured to accompany with her husband Scott Mitchell to our first meeting with the Prime Minister three years ago. 

'The stark reality is that dementia is the biggest killer in the UK and as there are no treatments yet to stop or slow it down. The Government’s promise to commit an additional £95m investment into dementia research and encourage more people to take part in clinical trials, is crucial to accelerate progress into game-changing therapies that will transform thousands of lives.

This is an encouraging and important signal that dementia is being recognised by our politicians as the priority it needs to be.

'This will help position the UK as a global leader in the development in advanced diagnostics, new treatments and quality care. We’re looking forward to working with the Government to turbo charge the benefits for people affected by dementia, including through the imminent 10-year plan for dementia.'