A short film that highlights the issues faced when someone is diagnosed with dementia has been produced by Suffolk campaign ‘Respect for dementia’.

The awareness and anti-stigma campaign is part of the public benefit work of Suffolk Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust.

The film, which has been released in time for Dementia Awareness Week (5th-11th July 2010) is available free to the public as a DVD and to view online via www.ifyouknew.co.uk.

‘Respect for dementia’ provides guidance about what to expect for people who are newly diagnosed with dementia. It also provides information about where to find support for both the person diagnosed and their loved ones.

Rob Butler, consultant psychiatrist for older people’s mental health, said: “’Respect for dementia’ is a really positive development in promoting better information for those affected by the illness in Suffolk.

“This short film highlights the stigma and isolation faced by people diagnosed with dementia and their family members. It is important that people know they are not alone.

“I have been involved in this campaign from the start and I know that it is increasing awareness of dementia and its effects.”

The film was commissioned due to the positive response from a set of diaries created and launched for the campaign during Dementia Awareness Week last year.

Rob added: “The dementia diaries tell the feelings and thoughts of both a person diagnosed with the condition, and that person’s partner. They were compiled from real stories from people in Suffolk and already more than one thousand have been distributed to date.”

To request a copy of the DVD and/or diaries please leave a message with your contact details at 01473 329785 or email [email protected].

The release of this film comes after the new Health Secretary Andrew Lansley’s called for a bigger focus on dementia across the NHS earlier this month.