With dementia rates expected to exceed 1.4 million by 2040 in the UK, a new report from the Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) calls for immediate action to address the severe shortage of community support services for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. Survey data reveals that over half of caregivers (51%) lack access to essential support, with 37% receiving no external assistance since their loved one’s diagnosis. The report underscores the critical role that community-based services play in easing the isolation and emotional toll on carers, recommending substantial increases in funding and resources to scale these services nationwide.
The Royal Voluntary Service, which currently operates more than 60 dementia support groups across the UK, has found that these services have a powerful positive impact. According to recent feedback, 81% of attendees noted improvements in wellbeing, mood, and cognitive function, while 98% of caregivers report enhanced emotional resilience and relief. The report highlights Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) groups as a valuable model, offering activities designed to promote cognitive health and foster community connections.
“Carers and individuals with dementia face extraordinary challenges, often with minimal support,” said Dr. Rachel Fox, National Dementia Development Manager at RVS. “Through targeted community programs, we’re seeing the immense difference that structured, volunteer-driven services make. But without wider availability, too many people are left to navigate this journey alone.”
The RVS report also points to a potential solution: a pool of willing volunteers, as nearly one in four adults surveyed expressed interest in supporting dementia groups. By expanding volunteer recruitment and cross-sector partnerships, the Royal Voluntary Service aims to meet growing demand and provide critical support that’s accessible across more communities.
For more information on how to support or volunteer with dementia services, visit Royal Voluntary Service.
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With dementia rates expected to exceed 1.4 million by 2040 in the UK, a new report from the Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) calls for immediate action to address the severe shortage of community support services for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. Survey data reveals that over half of caregivers (51%) lack access to essential support, with 37% receiving no external assistance since their loved one’s diagnosis. The report underscores the critical role that community-based services play in easing the isolation and emotional toll on carers, recommending substantial increases in funding and resources to scale these services nationwide.
The Royal Voluntary Service, which currently operates more than 60 dementia support groups across the UK, has found that these services have a powerful positive impact. According to recent feedback, 81% of attendees noted improvements in wellbeing, mood, and cognitive function, while 98% of caregivers report enhanced emotional resilience and relief. The report highlights Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) groups as a valuable model, offering activities designed to promote cognitive health and foster community connections.
“Carers and individuals with dementia face extraordinary challenges, often with minimal support,” said Dr. Rachel Fox, National Dementia Development Manager at RVS. “Through targeted community programs, we’re seeing the immense difference that structured, volunteer-driven services make. But without wider availability, too many people are left to navigate this journey alone.”
The RVS report also points to a potential solution: a pool of willing volunteers, as nearly one in four adults surveyed expressed interest in supporting dementia groups. By expanding volunteer recruitment and cross-sector partnerships, the Royal Voluntary Service aims to meet growing demand and provide critical support that’s accessible across more communities.
For more information on how to support or volunteer with dementia services, visit Royal Voluntary Service.