The role of frontline worker attitudes and beliefs in shaping dementia friendly services in England

What is it about?

Applying the social model of disability as a guide, the article highlights the important role of attitudes and beliefs held by staff and volunteers employed in frontline service delivery in the achievement of dementia friendly communities. The article shows how culture inevitably impinges on both the services offered, and the extent to which services aimed at people living with dementia will be person centred. The article opens up a new dialogue around what is meant by dementia friendly, and around whether additional concepts, such as dementia positive, are required to support it.

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Why is it important?

As the number of local authorities and community organisations who are committed to offering dementia friendly services continues to increase, it is important to ensure that the views and attitudes of frontline staff are aligned to the values of the organisations for which they work. The paper contributes to an understanding of the cultural climate within frontline service delivery, which is often neglected in favour of discussions around meeting more immediate care and support needs. More specifically, it reflects on whether the term dementia friendly is sufficient when exploring the contribution that staff and volunteers make to ensuring services are more inclusive.