Researchers receive grant to improve Dementia care in care homes

Led by Dr Claire Surr, the research team comprises of Professor Murna Downs and Mr Paul Edwards from the University of Bradford as well as leading academics from Kings College London, University of Leeds, Newcastle University and the University of Technology Sydney. The research also includes experts from Oxfordshire Health NHS Foundation Trust, Bradford District Care Trust, Bupa and the Alzheimer’s Society.

The study, known as DCM-EPIC, will involve 750 people with dementia and care staff in 50 care homes across the North of England, London and Oxfordshire. The aim is to investigate whether Dementia Care Mapping™ (DCM), a technique developed at the University of Bradford, is effective in helping care home staff to deliver better quality care to people with dementia.

Dr Claire Surr, Reader in Dementia Studies at the University of Bradford, said: “We are delighted to be supported by the NIHR HTA programme to undertake this research. This study will provide us with strong evidence about how we can ensure people living with dementia get better quality care in care homes.

Care home staff need to know the best available approaches to support people living with dementia. This research will tell us if the Dementia Care Mapping™ tool is an effective way to equip staff with the skills they need to deliver good quality care for residents.”

Dr Pam Bagley, Dean of the School of Health Studies at the University of Bradford, added: “This is a prestigious project which will contribute to our understanding of how to provide good quality dementia care. The fact that the team from the University of Bradford have been joined by such highly acclaimed national and international academics and experts in conducting this research demonstrates its importance to the field.”

The research, which is to commence immediately, is due to complete in September 2017.