Introducing Islington’s First Dementia Strategy

Islington is a Dementia Friendly borough, and we are committed to making sure our residents affected by dementia are supported to live well as active members of our community. There is already a rich offer of care and support services in the borough. The Dementia Strategy is our long-term plan to build on this offer, improving the experience and quality of life of our residents  

Our vision is for Islington to be a place where residents are supported on the dementia journey; from prevention to diagnosis through to end of life.  

Why is this important?  

By 2030, it is estimated that more than 2,000 residents in Islington will be living with dementia. We know that more than 45% of dementia are caused by factors within our control.   

Getting a diagnosis can be a gateway to care and support for the person with dementia and their family and carers. People can live many years after a diagnosis. With the right support, it is possible to maintain a good quality of life for longer, doing the things that matter.   

Key priority areas   

We have worked in partnership with 150 people who live in Islington, including those affected by dementia, and 120 professionals across the council, health services and our community services. Together we decided how to make positive change through commitments under five priority areas:  

1. Preventing avoidable dementia - I know what dementia is, what increases the risk of dementia and how to reduce risk of developing the condition  
2. Timely identification and diagnosis - My community and services can recognise early signs of dementia and support me to get a timely and accurate diagnosis  
3. Good post diagnostic care and support - I can easily get the information, advice, care and support I need from staff who understand my needs   
4. Living well with dementia - I can live as independently as possible and do the things I enjoy  
5. Choice and control - Decisions about my care are made according to my wishes, preferences, beliefs and values, even when I can no longer make decisions on my own.  

Delivering results through partnership working   

People who live in Islington and those who work in the council, health services and community services will work together to make our vision a reality. The Resident Dementia Steering Group will meet every three months to hear about the progress we are making and hold us to account.   

A huge thank you to everyone involved in bringing the Dementia Strategy to life. We look forward to working with our residents and partners across North Central London Integrated Care Board, North London Foundation Trust, Whittington Health, University College London Hospitals, Islington GP Federation, Healthwatch Islington, Age UK and representatives of the Islington Voluntary and Community Sector.   

Councillor Dr Sara Hyde, Executive Member for Health and Social Care

To read the full strategy, visit our website. To get involved in the Resident Dementia Steering Group, contact us at dfi@islington.gov.uk