Charity calls for business to support working age dementia sufferers

The Alzheimer’s Society has issued a call for all businesses to create a dementia-friendly working environment and allow staff with dementia the opportunity to continue to play an active part in the workforce.

In support of this initiative, the charity has produced a practical guide for  employers to support staff affected by dementia.

One in five people living with dementia are under the age of retirement and could be making a valuable contribution to businesses.

With the UK statutory retirement age rising, and the number of people with dementia expected to increase to one million by 2021, many more people will develop dementia while still in employment.

The guide,’Creating a dementia-friendly workplace: A practical guide for employers’, sets out the best practice for businesses.

Employers can expect to see a range of benefits including: staff retention, development of empowering and inclusive policies and cultures in the workplace; and importantly ensure employers are fulfilling their legal responsibilities outlined in the Equality Act 2010.  

Many people who develop dementia fear the reactions of colleagues and employers, worrying they might not be supported to continue at work or would be discriminated against.

The guide aims to help businesses create an environment where people with dementia and their carers feel confident to talk about their condition openly.

Jeremy Hughes, Chief Executive at Alzheimer’s Society said: “There is a widespread lack of understanding of dementia. For too long dementia has been seen as only affecting older people who are retired, but with over 40,000 people living with the condition under the age of retirement, this is simply not the case. Likewise, many carers of people with dementia would like to be able to continue earning.

“Those diagnosed with early onset dementia, commonly have significant financial commitments, such as mortgages or family dependants. They need to stay in paid employment for as long as they are able. People with dementia can still make a meaningful contribution with the right support. Employers that invest in awareness raising and rethink their approach to dementia will retain skills and experience in the workplace and also ensure people with dementia and carers are more financially secure.”

To download the guide, visit: http://www.alzheimers.org.uk