Agenda item

Amanda Whent (Lead Dementia Nurse, ABHB) and Jennifer Winslade (Executive Director of Nursing, ABHB) introduced the report, delivered a presentation and answered the members’ questions:

Key Questions from Members:

• What are the contact details for dementia champions, and how sufficient is the funding? 

Amanda explained that there are 286 dementia champions across the region, and the information is held in a database. She acknowledged the need to provide specific details for Monmouthshire and offered to produce a paper outlining the specifics, including care homes and schools involved.

• I would be interested in seeing the performance targets for 2025 and progress to date, including monitoring and performance standards.

Amanda mentioned that they use key performance indicators (KPIs) and benchmarking against national models to measure progress. She offered to share the KPIs and performance data in a future presentation (Action: Scrutiny Manager to take forward).

• Are there mitigation strategies to reduce the speed of dementia onset, including advice on diet, exercise, and prevention?

Amanda highlighted the importance of prevention and mentioned that they are working on various factors, including cholesterol management and trauma-based interventions. She noted that public health and primary care partnerships are crucial for addressing prevention and early intervention.

• What are the results from Workstream 1 in Newport and how it will be rolled out in Monmouthshire, considering the differences between the two areas.

Amanda explained that the principles of the citizens' engagement model initially piloted in Newport have been applied across Gwent. The approach involves going into various community settings to gather feedback and tailor services to local needs.

• Please can you provide the details about the dementia connectors, including who they are and whether there are enough of them?

Amanda acknowledged that there are not enough dementia connectors to meet the current needs. However, recent funding has been allocated to develop specific roles, and recruitment efforts are ongoing to increase the number of connectors.

• Is hearing loss linked to an increased likelihood of developing dementia and if so, is it important to address hearing issues early?

Amanda confirmed that there is a high correlation between hearing loss and dementia. She explained that addressing hearing issues early can reduce the risk of dementia. The audiology team is involved in delivering a dementia experience programme to raise awareness and improve screening processes for those with cognitive decline.

• Is there collation and regular contact between local dementia-friendly groups and the health board.?

Amanda explained that the dementia-friendly communities have a monthly meeting where information is shared. They use a padlet and the ABUHB internet pages to upload and share information about ongoing activities and opportunities for engagement. The dementia hubs are intended to be a central point for accessing information and services.

• How accessible are the dementia hubs? Is there a need for better coordination and communication of available resources in local communities?

Amanda explained that the dementia hubs are in their infancy, with plans to expand and improve communication. She acknowledged the challenge of raising awareness and the need for better coordination. Jennifer added that the hubs are important, but local facilities and community engagement are also crucial. They welcomed the feedback and said they are committed to exploring ways to improve local access to information and support.

• The Chair expressed concern about the projected increase in the elderly population in Monmouthshire and the existing provision of care, emphasizing the need for more resources and support.

Amanda acknowledged the growing need for dementia care and the importance of consistent and continuous support across Gwent. She mentioned the development of dementia hubs and the role of dementia connectors in providing ongoing support. Jennifer emphasised the need for a holistic approach to care, involving health, social care, voluntary sectors, and families. She highlighted the importance of community-based care and the need for political support to address the growing demand.

• The Chair enquired about the possibility of financial incentives for families to care for their elderly relatives, similar to models in other countries.

Jennifer mentioned that while direct payments are available in England, it is a broader political question for Wales. She emphasised the need for a community-based approach to care and the importance of working with local authorities and other partners to provide support. She also highlighted ongoing efforts to develop place-based care models and the importance of addressing the issue now rather than in the future.

Chair’s Summary:

The Chair thanked Amanda and Jenifer for attending and presenting on a matter of significant priority to the Committee. He acknowledged the need for increased resources and support for dementia care in Monmouthshire and highlighted the importance of addressing these issues promptly. He paid recognition to the responses of ABUHB which highlighted ongoing efforts to develop community-based care models. He raised the need for political support to address the growing demand for services and advised the Committee would like to visit the staff to better appreciate how support is delivered (Action: Scrutiny Manager to facilitate).