The Current State of Dementia Diagnosis & Care in England report reveals ongoing gaps in diagnosis, significant regional disparities and serious challenges in coordination of care.

Professor Martin Green, chief executive of Care England, said: ‘People living with dementia, and the professionals who care for them, are navigating a system that is too often reactive, underfunded and disjointed. This report is a call to redesign that system from the ground up, which needs national leadership, long-term investment and a commitment to treating dementia care as a priority, not an afterthought.'

The report reveals the average waiting time from referral to dementia diagnosis has increased to 17.7 weeks, up from 13 weeks in 2019, with current waiting times ranging anywhere from 0 to 104 weeks across the country. In comparison, the range in 2019 was between 3 and 34 weeks.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: ‘We inherited a health system that has struggled to support those with complex needs, including those with dementia. With the 10-Year Health Plan, those living with dementia will benefit from improved care planning and better services.  

‘Timely diagnosis is crucial and this Government remains committed to increasing diagnosis rates and ensuring people can access the appropriate treatment and support they need.

‘This Government is getting the NHS back on its feet, creating a society where every person with dementia receives high-quality, compassionate care — from diagnosis through to the end of life.'