To ask the Minister of Health what actions have been taken to support and protect dementia sufferers and their carers, in care homes and in private residences, in the context of a second wave of COVID-19 this winter.

Trusts have been requested to develop support plans that ensure that Trusts and service providers are working closely together to maintain services in a safe and effective way.

Along with the Community and Voluntary sector, Trust staff continue to provide local support to people with a dementia and their carers. This has included telephone calls to provide information and offer reassurance and use of other technologies including Apps and video links.

Trust Memory Services have adapted to current circumstances and through the use of technology and other innovative practices, are able to undertake assessments and care reviews.

The HSC, including the Department, will continue to provide information and guidance in relation to a range of COVID-19 related issues that impact on those who have a dementia, whether they live in the community or are placed in a care home setting.

Information about Dementia and COVID-19 is available on the following links:

https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/dementia

https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/

Information booklets are also available at:

https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/search/node?keys=dementia

We will continue to review all such interventions and ensure they remain appropriate.