PM calls for million-strong army to support dementia sufferers

David Cameron has set out his ambitious plan to create masses of “dementia friends” who will be able to spot the signs of the condition and offer support for sufferers.

Mr Cameron hopes that one million people will sign up to receive coaching sessions by 2015.

The sessions, which will be provided in church halls and workplaces, will help to raise awareness and teach people how to support those with the condition.

He said: “There are already nearly 700,000 sufferers in England alone but less than half are diagnosed and general awareness about the condition is shockingly low.”

Mr Cameron has also announced that the Government will be giving almost £10m for dementia research and £50mto make wards and care homes more comfortable for people with dementia.

Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt said: “Too many people with dementia feel cut off, lonely and fearful without the support and understanding they need.”

n To register interest in taking part in the local sessions, visit: dementiafriends.org.uk or by text Friend to 88080