Social Prescribing Resource Sheet:
Memory Loss Support

 

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Introduction

This resource sheet includes a selection of services, tools, and organisations that others have found helpful.

Please also see Post-Diagnosis resource sheet for further information and guidance.

If you require further support in accessing these, or other services, please contact the Social Prescribing Team on 01308 428943 or contact us via our online form.

dementia

 

Social Prescribing is available at your GP Surgery

If you live in Bridport, Beaminster, Lyme Regis or the wider West Dorset area, you can speak directly with our Social Prescribers and Care Coordinators - no referral needed.

  • Support with finances
  • Getting Active
  • Hobbies and Interests
  • Connecting to Community
  • Supporting wellbeing
  • Help with Long Term Conditions

 

Why investigate/ Diagnose? 

A diagnosis of Memory loss can mean that the individual and their carers can better prepare for the future. There will be better management of the condition and access to specialist resources once a diagnosis is made. There may be financial benefits that can be applied for and legal administration to have in place to safeguard the individual and their assets.    

 

Route to diagnosis

If there is doubt about a person’s memory or cognition, then a visit to the GP should be the first step to rule out any other causes. The GP can conduct some tests (blood, urine and memory tests) They will ask questions about how everyday tasks are managed and discuss any concerns an individual or their family/ friends may have. A support person can be present to assist the patient to understand the appointment and help to answer any questions.

The GP will then determine if a referral to the Memory Assessment Service is appropriate. The specialists in the Memory Assessment Service can conduct further tests to diagnose the memory impairment and can explain the outcomes and the next steps in detail. 

Once a referral to the Memory Assessment Service is made the patient can be supported by the “Dementia co-ordinator service” ran by the organisation “Help and Care”. They have separate teams for Pre- diagnosis and post-diagnosis, to support individuals and their Carers in understanding the process of the assessment service and signpost to community support. 

Dementia Co-Ordinator Service

To refer yourself into the service, call this number.

Telephone: 0300 1231916 

 

Online Support

There can be a wait for appointments and it’s important that individuals feel supported and informed throughout the process.

Next Steps

The Next Steps website offers a step-by-step guide from initial referral by the GP onwards throughout the journey to a diagnosis. Giving support on well-being, services available and what to expect post diagnosis. 

Website: Visit the Next Steps website

Dorset Health Care

For a comprehensive guide on the memory assessment service and further information on Dementia and support offered by Dorset Health Care.

Website: Visit the Dorset Health Care website

 

Helplines

Both the Alzheimer’s society and Dementia UK have trained individuals on hand to answer questions and queries. 

Alzheimer’s Society

Telephone: 0333 1503456 

Dementia UK Admiral Nurse Helpline

Telephone: 0800 8886678

Please see Dementia Post-Diagnosis esource sheet for further information and guidance.

 

Further Information

While we hope you may find something here that supports you, please note that these resources are not all officially endorsed by the NHS. We endeavour to ensure that all listings are accurate and up to date, but please be aware that we cannot guarantee this at all times.

If you are a local service, organisation or group that would like to be included in this guide, please contact us via secure online form or call the PCN Admin Team on 01308 801810 and tell us about your support offering.

Last updated: July 2025.