Alzheimer's Society responds to ONS data showing care home deaths have risen over 30% in the last week

Since the outbreak of coronavirus in the UK, Alzheimer’s Society have been campaigning to get social care put on an equal footing with the NHS, including coordinating a response with Care England and other charities, and writing to Matt Hancock, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, to call for a dedicated national strategy to support care home residents and their families through the pandemic.

In response to the new ONS data released today, Fiona Carragher, Director of Research and Influencing said:

'It’s heart-breaking to hear just how many more people in care homes across the country have lost their lives to Covid-19. Alzheimer’s Society are devastated for the family, friends and carers they leave behind. We are appalled that care home deaths have risen over 30% in the last week.

'70% of care home residents and three fifths of people using home care have dementia. The Government has listened to our calls to publish daily data on deaths in care homes and the community and these figures are helping us to understand the scale of the crisis in the neglected care sector.

Unfortunately many care homes still have not received the testing and protective equipment promised by the Government. This need to be urgently addressed before more lives are lost.

'The loss of a loved one to coronavirus is even more distressing for family and friends when they are denied the chance to say goodbye in a meaningful way. This could have a long term and profound effect on those grieving. We are here for anyone affected by dementia and our Dementia Connect support line is available on 0333 150 3456 for anyone needing information and advice.'