West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin has offered her backing to a campaign to boost dementia research and help nearly one million people who are suffering with the condition in the UK.

Harriett’s constituency ranks as one of the highest in the country for people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, with increasing number of local families impacted by the condition.

The MP attended an event in the House of Commons where she was briefed on a ‘moonshot bid’ by Alzheimer’s Research UK to increase funding to find treatments and, one day, a cure for dementia.

Harriett commented:

“Dementia is a terrible condition to live with and I have supported local efforts to ensure that we have the right resources to support sufferers and their families.

“The statistics show that this is a serious problem in West Worcestershire and as we all live longer lives, this will become an increasingly common condition.

“I was delighted to recently open a dementia meeting centre at St Mathias Church in Malvern Link, and I know we can do much more to help reduce the impact of this illness on sufferers and their families and friends.

“The important work to better understand dementia, and hopefully one day find a cure, needs financial assistance and I was happy to add my name to the list of supporters for this vital national effort.”

David Thomas, Head of Policy at Alzheimer’s Research UK, added:

“A big thank you to Harriett for taking the time to join us and support dementia research during World Alzheimer’s Month.

“Dementia is one of the biggest global health crises we face. In 2019, the Government made a manifesto promise to double funding for dementia research to £160m a year and speed up progress in clinical trials. Now is the time to deliver on this pledge.

“The response to COVID-19 has shown us what science can achieve with increased investment and momentum. And we’re confident that, with the right support, we can make the life-changing breakthroughs that are so needed for people with dementia.”