A GP has been appointed to lead improvements in supporting people with dementia and their carers.

Bikram Raychaudhuri, of Mayflower Surgery in Worthing, has been appointed clinical lead for dementia at the Coastal West Sussex Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).

The CCG prioritises dementia because of the rising number of patients with the condition.

Dr Raychaudhuri, pictured, said: “As a GP, dementia is becoming an increasingly significant issue.

“More people display signs of dementia as our population gets older and lives for longer.

“Often these people are elderly, frail and, in many cases, vulnerable, who may be living alone or perhaps with other long-term conditions.

“This means they can need a lot of support, especially as their memory get worse.

“We also need to recognise loved ones and carers, who have a difficult role and who may need support themselves.

“We need to make sure the right care is available.”