AN INNOVATIVE project aimed at improving care and support for people with dementia has been given a £75,000 boost.

The funding from the Health Foundation will help kick start the Dementia Golden Ticket scheme run by the High Weald Lewes Havens Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG).

It is one of 21 schemes around the country to be awarded extra money.

The Golden Ticket is focussed on improving the quality of life of the estimated 2,500 people living with dementia in the CCG catchment area.

Currently being trialled at Buxted Medical Centre, the new service brings together health workers, social services, the voluntary sector and local communities to diagnose and support people with dementia.

CCG chairwoman Elizabeth Gill said she was delighted at the project’s successful bid.

She said: “The Golden Ticket will ensure that we are able to understand and meet the whole needs of people with dementia and their carers.

“We can provide a point of contact in the practice, proactively work with families when times become more challenging and have a variety of partners working in the community to provide care and support.”

Key features of the service include a GP practice review and a carer’s cafe where people can get support from others going through similar experiences.

There is also a dementia guide service for information, advice and support and carers services.

Families with a ‘Golden Ticket’ will also be able to access a range of well-being services, close to where they live.

CCG clinical lead for dementia, Emma Costello, said: “Too often people with dementia do not receive the support they need, their condition worsens and they end up in hospital.

“We know that with the right services and care provided locally that people can live well with dementia – and that’s what we’re delivering with the Golden Ticket.”

The pilot will run to the end of December and roll out to the rest of the CCG area next autumn following evaluation.

It is being run in association with Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust and a range of other partners.

Sussex Partnership director of strategy and improvement, Sam Allen, said: “This ground breaking programme has the potential to improve the lives of those diagnosed with dementia, helping them to live well.”

The Kent, Surrey, Sussex Academic Health Science Network (KSS AHSN) will evaluate the pilot.