PEOPLE in York and Tadcaster who have dementia or are worried about their memories are invited to specialist clinics in GP surgeries.

New dementia advice clinics are being run by Alzheimer’s Society at East Parade Medical Practice and Jorvik Gillygate Practice, in York, and Tadcaster Medical Centre.

An estimated 2,717 people have dementia in York and this is expected to rise to 3,503 by 2025. However, the condition is under diagnosed in the Vale of York Clinical Commissioning Group area, with a recorded diagnosis rate of 55 per cent - the national target is 67 per cent.

Launched this month, new clinics are being run by specialist dementia support workers, who support people with dementia and their loved ones.

Philip Kingsley, an Alzheimer’s Society dementia support worker, said: “People affected by dementia often don’t know who to talk to about their concerns or know how to access the support that is available to them. The Dementia Advice Clinic is about offering an accessible facility locally. No concern is too small, we are here to help.”

The clinics will offer 30 minute appointments to ensure patients have as much time as they need.

Wendy Stevens, practice manager at Jorvik Gillygate Practice, said: “Jorvik Gillygate Practice is excited to have this clinic running from their Woolpack House surgery from April. The practice believes this service will improve the life of carers, recently diagnosed people living with dementia and patients concerned with memory problems by supporting, educating and referring onto relevant services when applicable.”

The initiative follows the successful launch of a similar service at Filey Surgery.

A carer, who has used the service, said: “I had so many questions about care options for my mum who has dementia, as well as dealing with my own feelings of guilt at considering a care home for mum.” They explained that the support offered helped them to make the best decision for their mum, whose needs had changed, and to find residential care for her.

To book an appointment contact East Parade Medical Practice on 01904 423666, Jorvik Gillygate Practice on 01904 724343 and Tadcaster Medical Centre on 01937 530082.