City and hackney dementia service (ELFT memory clinic)

•             The Dementia Service is still accepting referrals, and these should be sent via SPE/e-referrals

•             All new referrals accepted for memory clinic assessment will be put on a waiting list. The GP and patient will be written to informing them of this and assessment will proceed when the assessment service re-opens.

•             All dementia patients currently open to the service are being reviewed and will have an offer of telephone support (frequency depending on need). Dementia Navigators (Alzheimer’s Society) are increasing the number of keeping in touch telephone calls with service users. Only if there is urgent clinical need will a home visit be considered (this is likely to be by a Dr).

•             All local Alzheimer’s Society group sessions have been suspended,  looking into virtual sessions. Telephone welfare checks will be provided to regular attendees.

•             Adult Social care are currently putting together an information pack on the co-ordination of the council’s food parcels scheme and how to access it. All dementia patients will be referred to this scheme once up and running.

•             GPs can use the council’s covid-19 helpline 020 8356 3111 (8am-5pm Monday-Friday) to refer vulnerable patients for support. Further information on Covid-19 support for vulnerable residents or how to assist them access support can be found here

•             Alzheimer’s Society are also extending the operating hours of their national Dementia Connect Support Line (0333 150 3456). Phone support available 7 days a week. Mon to Wed: 9am – 8pm; Thurs & Fri: 9am – 5pm; Sat & Sunday: 10am – 4pm. More information here

•             There is also a community Talking Point on the website