Dagenham and Rainham MP Named Dementia Champion For 2025.

‘I’m particularly keen to help ensure everyone who is living in Dagenham and Rainham with dementia gets a formal diagnosis and can access the treatments and support they need‘

Over one million people in the UK live with dementia and dementia continues to be the UK’s biggest killer, claiming the lives of almost 66,000 people in 2022. In response, Margaret Mullane MP has joined Alzheimer’s Research UK’s Dementia Research Champions programme, pledging to take action throughout 2025 that will help revolutionise the way dementia is treated, diagnosed and prevented.

At Alzheimer’s Research UK’s parliamentary event on 11 December, Margaret met with people affected by dementia and learned about the strides being made in research. Globally, there are now more than 160 clinical trials underway, testing over 125 experimental treatments for Alzheimer’s, with over 30 in advanced phase 3 trials.

This year marked a historic milestone with the licensing of two new Alzheimer’s drugs, lecanemaband donanemab, in Britain, the first in over 20 years. While these treatments are not cures and carry risks, they are the first to slow the progression of memory and thinking decline caused by Alzheimer’s. NHS England has also identified nearly 30 potential dementia treatments that could be available by 2030, offering hope to millions.

In her new role Margaret Mullane will work to ensure dementia remains a political priority. 

Margaret told the Havering Daily: “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 Dagenham and Rainham with dementia gets a formal diagnosis and can access the treatments and support they need. Following the general election, I’m honored to be able to use my role in parliament to support efforts to find a cure and hold the government to account on this.” 

Margaret’s father, Bert sadly passed away after suffering with vascular dementia. 

Margaret added: “It was a real struggle to get a diagnosis for my dad and the journey to get him the best care was so hard. That experience has strengthened my resolve to do all I can to help this vital work.”

 Margaret shared on the day of the Parliamentary event his journey and spoke to many people there. Janis Cottee, who helped Margaret’s predecessor as MP, Jon Cruddas, and works with Together In Dementia Everyday (TIDE) was present on the day of the event in Westminster. Margaret has always valued Janis’s commitment and input.

 David Thomas, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “We’re thrilled to welcome Margaret Mullane MP as a Dementia Research Champion. These partnerships play a vital role in driving progress towards a cure, and keeping dementia research on the political agenda. At Alzheimer’s Research UK, we’re proud to work with Margaret and MPs from all parties to tackle dementia and improve lives. Together, we can bring an end to this devastating condition.”

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