The English Community Care Association (ECCA), the leading representative body for independent care providers, has responded to the National Audit Office report on the Department of Health’s National Dementia Strategy.

Martin Green, Chief Executive of ECCA, says:
“The National Dementia Strategy sets out a five year plan on how to improve the quality of life and support for people living with dementia.  The National Audit Office’s report is somewhat premature and whilst we accept that there is a lot more to be done we believe the development of the strategy and the achievements so far represent a significant improvement in raising the profile of dementia services and giving some clear direction for the future of care and support.”

Martin Green continues:
“There is, of course, a tension between nationally agreed strategies and a decentralised health and social care system.  It is incumbent on us all to work towards delivering this strategy,  which in the long-term will provide better services for people with dementia and their carers, and what we require is for the Government to acknowledge the resources that will be required to meet the challenges of the future.”

Notes to Editors:

• ECCA works to ensure that care services are commissioned fairly, efficiently and on a properly funded basis, to meet the true costs of providing appropriate care
• Contact ECCA press on 020 7492 4844 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
• Visit www.ecca.org.uk