If you are worried about memory problems in Sandwell, the local route usually starts with a GP and can then involve Black Country Healthcare’s Memory Assessment Service, adult social care, carer support, telecare and community groups. The most useful approach is often to work on diagnosis, practical support and future planning at the same time.
Who this page is for
This guide is for Sandwell residents worried about memory loss, people already living with a dementia diagnosis, and relatives, friends and carers who want to understand the local pathway.
The first local step if memory is changing
Sandwell’s dementia page and Black Country Healthcare’s Memory Assessment Service both point residents first to their GP. If physical causes are ruled out, the GP can refer into the specialist memory service.
The current Sandwell Memory Assessment Service is based at Edward Street Hospital, Edward Street, West Bromwich, B70 8NL with a published contact number of 0121 612 8219. The BCHFT page says appointments are Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm.
What the memory assessment process involves
Black Country Healthcare explains that the memory service provides screening, assessment and diagnosis. After a referral is received, a memory nurse contacts the person and arranges an appointment. The service says the first appointment usually lasts about an hour and includes questions, a memory test and discussion with the person and often a relative or friend.
Sometimes a diagnosis can be made at that point. Sometimes further investigations, such as a brain scan, are arranged.
Living well with dementia in Sandwell
Sandwell’s dementia page makes clear that support is not only about diagnosis. It points residents to local support groups, dementia cafés, home care, extra care housing, telecare, adult social care and support for carers.
- Adult social care advice and assessment
- Telecare and community alarms to help people stay safe at home
- Benefits advice through Welfare Rights
- Carer’s assessment and local carer support
- Information Point listings for dementia support groups and community resources
That makes this a borough-wide pathway rather than a single clinic referral.
Planning ahead early
Even when someone is still managing most things well, it is often sensible to plan ahead. In practice this can include talking about medication, money, future care, community alarms, driving, Lasting Power of Attorney, and what support a carer may need.
If risk or daily living problems are increasing, contact adult social care rather than waiting for a later stage.
When to seek urgent help
If someone with dementia becomes acutely unwell, unsafe, severely distressed or there is a mental health crisis, use urgent NHS help or call 111 and select option 2 for urgent mental health support in the Black Country. Call 999 if there is an immediate medical emergency or immediate danger.
Useful Sandwell links
- Living well with dementia
- Memory Assessment Service
- Contact Adult Social Care
- Community Alarms
- Welfare Rights Team
- Information, advice and support for carers
