Dementia UK
Dementia UK is a charitable organisation in the United Kingdom. It aims to support those living with dementia and their families, primarily through their specialists nurses, called Admiral Nurses.
As of 2022, they have 376 Admiral Nurses working throughout the UK.
History
A specialist training program was initially set up in 1988, before the first Admiral Nurses were appointed in 1990 at the Middlesex Hospital. This eventually resulted in the establishment of the Dementia Relief Trust in 1995, later to be renamed Dementia UK.The project was started by Ninot Levy and Jane Jason, wife and daughter of property developer Joseph Levy CBE BEM, who was diagnosed with vascular dementia in the 1980s and was inspired by the specialist support given by Macmillan Nurses to those with cancer.
The name Admiral Nurse was derived from Joseph Levy's nickname of 'Admiral Joe' due to his love of sailing.
Organisation and governance
Dementia UK is registered in England and Wales as a charity and a company limited by guarantee. It is governed by a Board of Trustees, of which the current chair is Professor David Croisdale-Appleby. The current Chief Executive is Dr Hilda Hayo.Original founder Jane Joseph, now holds position of Honorary President.
Activities
Through its work, Dementia UK aims to provide support to those living with dementia, as well as their families and carers.Admiral Nurses
The Admiral Nurse program is the charity's primary offering, providing specialist dementia nurses to those that require support.Admiral Nurses work in NHS hospitals, care homes, hospices, GP practices, as well as throughout local communities.