A NEW service has been launched to help people with dementia by providing them with specialist support, advice and guidance.

Teesside Hospice and Dementia UK have joined forces to develop a new Admiral Nurse Service through a donation from chemical company Venator.

The service, which also aims to support people's carers and families, was officially launched yesterday.

And with 1,581 people in Middlesbrough and 2,038 people in Redcar and Cleveland now living with dementia, the charity believes the specialist service is essential for people affected by the condition.

Jean Wooldridge, Teesside Hospice Admiral Nurse, said: “The launch of Teesside Hospice’s Admiral Nurse Service is important to highlight the specialist service that we can now provide to people living with dementia and to explain the many ways through which we can educate and offer support; whether that’s to families and carers or to other professionals across Teesside.

“The role combines two of my greatest passions: dementia care and end of life care. It involves helping families to stay connected, supporting them through the difficult times and allowing them to still find ‘moments of joy.’

"These moments stay with families and can help to ease the sadness when someone dies – and I can continue to be there to support them in their bereavement.”

The specialist service was developed to reach out to people with dementia who are approaching end of life.

Ms Wooldridge's role as an Admiral Nurse means that she receives support from Dementia UK and regularly networks with other Admiral Nurses to share information and ideas.

The hospice is also able to offer dementia education and is keen to further develop its needs led service, with the valuable support of Dementia UK, so that more people across Teesside can access personalised care, advice and support to meet their needs as individuals.

Dr Hilda Hayo, chief Admiral Nurse and chief executive officer for Dementia UK, said: “End of life care in cases of dementia can take a huge toll on families psychologically, emotionally and financially. This new service with Teesside Hospice will be essential in providing support for families in need. Healthcare professionals will also be able to access Jean’s expertise, paving the way for best practice in dementia care.

“We are honoured to have Jean as an Admiral Nurse and we look forward to hearing about the impact she will have in the region.”

Anyone wanting more information about the service should visit www.teessidehospice.org or call 01642-811144.