Third sector provision of dementia support in the community: results from a scoping exercise of charity involvement in the UK

Third sector dementia support is characterised by wide variation and a heavy reliance on volunteer engagement. While there has been a growth in the reach and diversity of different schemes, their short-term funding results in a loss of networks, collaborations and local knowledge. This practice paper reflects on strengthening community-based dementia support and care via public and third sector partnerships. National and local data sources could help charities and commissioners begin to identify inequalities of provision.