New panel set up and begins work in Peterborough to improve services for people with dementia

The panel has been set up by and is comprised of people with lived experience of caring for a family member with the condition.

Founder Louise Yates spent a number of years caring for her mother Marion after she was diagnosed so knows first-hand the battle it can be seeing the effects of dementia take hold but also in fighting to receive a standard of care that patients deserve.

Louise was inspired to set up the panel after being a key voice in the fight to protect dementia services in the city when, in 2024, Peterborough City Council delivered the devastating blow that the service would receive a 51% budget cut.

The centre also faced further threat when the decision was made to sell its home on York Road and again, carers stepped into advocate for their loved ones and ensure any alternative provision found would be suitable.

Sadly, Marion passed away in January but Louise has remained committed to fighting for those with dementia and the panel is continuing to make progress.

As part of a new working relationship, members of the Peterborough & Cambridgeshire Dementia Panel have this week visited non-emergency patient transport service EMED’s ambulance station in the city to see the vehicles used to transport people living with dementia and talk to staff about their experiences.

EMED recently approached the panel to request to work together to ensure they are providing the best service for these service users. This was the initial meeting of the panel’s new working group that has been developed as a result following the panel’s last meeting.

Visitors had the opportunity to tour one of our patient transport vehicles, meet our crews and discuss the experiences and challenges that people living with dementia and those who care for them, can face when accessing healthcare.

EMED’s Community Engagement, Health and Wellbeing Officer for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, Ade Gardner said: “These conversations are invaluable. They help us better understand the needs of our patients, share the perspective of our frontline colleagues, and identify practical ways to make journeys safer, more comfortable, and more accessible for everyone. "This is just one example of the work taking place across EMED Group as we continue to strengthen our relationships with patients, carers, Healthwatch, the voluntary and community sector, Healthcare Professionals and local communities. From dementia and neurodiversity to accessibility and health inequalities, we’re committed to ensuring lived experience helps shape the services we provide. “By listening, learning and working together, we can continue to improve patient transport and deliver care that truly puts people first.”

The Panel includes people with lived experience along with professionals and members of the voluntary sector who work in partnership to improve services for those living with dementia.

Anyone wishing to enquire about joining should contact Chair, Heather Hooper ([email protected]) or Founder Member, Louise Yates ([email protected]).”