West Cornwall MP Derek Thomas has been supporting Alzheimer’s Research UK to raise awareness of the disease, and prompt urgent action to tackle the increasing pressure that it places on society, health and care services, and the economy.

Mr Thomas has been taking action in his role as a Dementia Research champion, as new NHS figures reveal one in three people living with dementia never receive a formal diagnosis.

This leaves them unable to access potentially life-changing treatments that could be approved for use in the UK in a few months.

Mr Thomas said: “I’m proud to be a Dementia Research champion and support the tireless work of Alzheimer’s Research UK. Life-changing progress is being made in the labs every day. But we must speed up our efforts to save people from the heartbreak of dementia sooner.

"I’m particularly keen to help ensure everyone who is living in West Cornwall or the Isles of Scilly with dementia gets a formal diagnosis as this is crucial in ensuring everyone can access the treatments and support they need.”

David Thomas, head of policy at Alzheimer’s Research UK said: “We’re delighted to have the support of Derek Thomas on such an important issue. 

“People with dementia need MPs like Derek who will champion their needs in parliament and -support action to transform the way dementia is diagnosed, treated, and ultimately prevented entirely.”