New pilot cuts dementia waiting times by 20 weeks in North Birmingham
The new service brings GPs and specialists together for faster support
Last updated 26th Oct 2026
A new service known as Memory Matters is revolutionising dementia care in north Birmingham by slashing waiting times for assessments and treatments by 20 weeks.
Led by Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust in collaboration with the Alzheimer’s Society and Age Connects West Midlands, the pilot service has reduced the average waiting time from 31 weeks to just 11 weeks for people aged 80 and over.
This initiative comprises partnerships between GPs, dementia specialists, and community organisations to streamline access to needed care.
Lou Pickering, Community Service Manager for BSMHFT’s dementia and frailty services, highlighted the benefits of the service.
“The results we are seeing in participating north Birmingham GPs through Memory Matters show what can be achieved when we bring services and organisations together around the needs of people and communities," Pickering said.
Dr Gibbons, Frailty Lead at Sutton Coldfield Group Practice, emphasized the advantage of having assessment and support integrated within primary care.
“Having assessment and support available through primary care means people aged 80 and over can get advice and, where appropriate, a diagnosis and personalised support closer to home," Gibbons said.
Memory Matters aims to promote early discussions about brain health and memory concerns, particularly in communities where these conversations may happen less frequently.
The service, funded by the NHS Birmingham and Solihull’s Fairer Futures Fund, showcases how integrating health services with community resources can significantly impact people’s lives.
Paul Athey, Chief Finance Officer at NHS Birmingham and Solihull, sees Memory Matters as a key example of the Fairer Futures Fund’s intent to create substantive health improvements.
“These early results are encouraging. By testing a different way of working, we are seeing people get answers, treatment and support much sooner," Athey said.
For more details about Memory Matters and how to access support, visit the BSMHFT website.