The Scottish Government’s national conversation on dementia, launched to inform a review of the national dementia strategy 2017-2022, drew to a close on 5 December. The consultation encouraged everyone with an interest in dementia to share their experience of how the Scottish Government can support people to live well with dementia.

Responding to the consultation, CIH Scotland said staff training and awareness raising, dementia-friendly design in new developments and the provision of aids and adaptations to existing homes are among the many contributions that the housing sector has made in this area.

• Podcast: Housing and Dementia with Lesley Palmer and Ashley Campbell

However, the response also pointed out that the housing sector needs clear leadership and resources in order to improve housing outcomes for people living with dementia, their families and carers.

Ashley Campbell, policy and practice manager at CIH Scotland, said: “Living well with dementia starts with the right housing and support. The housing sector is key to delivering the Scottish Government’s commitment to support people to live independently at home, or in a homely setting, for as long as possible, and it is essential that the role of housing is reflected in the new national dementia strategy.

“Our research and recent work with the National Housing and Dementia Forum sets out clear recommendations for what is needed to improve housing outcomes for people living with dementia. The housing sector must be recognised as a key partner and we look forward to working with the Scottish Government to implement the new national dementia strategy.”