Figures for September 2026 show a record 523,081 people have a dementia diagnosis compared to 470,292 people in March 2020 when the dementia target was previously met.

Dr Jeremy Isaacs, national clinical director for dementia, NHS England, said: ‘It is fantastic news that the NHS has hit its target for diagnosing more than two-thirds of people with dementia for the first time since before the Covid-19 pandemic – and 50,000 more people than the last time this target was hit. 

‘Getting a dementia diagnosis is the first step in ensuring the NHS can offer help whether it be a care plan or medication review. 

 ‘As the number of people with dementia continues to rise, it's vital that we look at how we can provide a fitting and sustainable way to deliver long-term care for people with this devasting disease who are sometimes overlooked, which is why we are working with government to develop a national vision for dementia care.'