Dementia United recently endorsed the Living with Dementia Passport, for use across Greater Manchester.

The passport was developed by Kellie Leatherbarrow, who is an Operating Department Practitioner at Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.  She is also a carer and is now a member of the Dementia Carers Expert Reference Group.

National Guidelines highlight the importance of the entire patient experience and effective communication within the National Health Service [NHS]. The need for focusing on these improvements where possible is essential. The Living with Dementia Passport is a patient centred small booklet that stays with the individual throughout their journey. It contains salient points of information to improve communication during the transition of care.

The Living with Dementia Passport is clear, concise, interactive and aims to support the person living with dementia. It can be completed by the individual, carer or healthcare professional and used to encourage communication. Images are included for those who find verbally expressing their needs and wishes difficult or challenging

Lived experience and quality care is the driving force behind the passport. Knowing how providing small pieces of valuable information can positively impact someone’s care and experience.

Download the passport here: Living with Dementia Passport

Kellie is keen for the Living with Dementia Passport to be used widely.

I hope that the passport provides support and reassurance to many. On my journey I have seen how the smallest piece of information on the passport can have a positive impact on patient centred care.  Kellie

Kellie is keen to get feedback from anyone who uses the passport so please keep her updated if you do start using this by emailing her at kellie.leatherbarrow@wwl.nhs.uk.