A WORCESTER-BASED healthcare provider has thrown its support behind plans by health secretary Jeremy Hunt to overhaul dementia care.

Radfield Home Care has welcomed the commitment by Mr Hunt to reduce diagnosis waiting times, train businesses to spot dementia and work to reduce the stigma around the condition.

Currently patients wait an average of six months to be diagnosed with dementia, but the new plans would reduce this to an absolute maximum of six weeks in an effort to alleviate stress and anxiety suffered while waiting for results and treatment, as well as increase the possibility of successful treatment.

Radfield’s director Hannah MacKechnie said she hoped the plans would help the company’s commitment to increase the wellbeing of carers.

“The new dementia campaign is very welcome news to us,” she said. “And helping to encourage businesses to provide staff with training to help them spot the early signs of dementia will not only make their jobs easier by raising awareness and understanding, but will allow firms to provide the most appropriate and dignified care as possible.

“We’re sure it will offer sufferers of dementia – and their family and friends who also have to deal with the disease’s heartbreaking effects –peace of mind and the assurance of support by the wider community.

“Other proposals include raising the public awareness of the condition, and as advocates of the dementia friendly campaign – a long-term programme to educate local people about dementia and to encourage a greater degree of respect and tolerance – these are plans we strongly support.”

For more information on Radfield Home Care call 01743 245 555, email care@radfield.co.uk or visit radfieldhomecare.co.uk