In 2025, The National Audit of Dementia conducted a survey of memory assessment services in England, Wales and Jersey. The report highlighted continuing demand for services, increase in waiting times, and wide variation in service staffing, specific diagnoses, and post diagnostic provision. 👥 - Demand: Analysis of figures provided by services found approximately 2 referrals for every 1,000 people in the catchment population. 🕑 - Waiting time: The median waiting time from referral to diagnosis has increased by 5 days to 137 days since the 2023 spotlight audit, despite low staff vacancies reported. 📊 - Variation in provision and model: There was great variation in staffing numbers and roles, and in services provision, with 23% of services not providing Cognitive Stimulation Therapy post-diagnosis. There continues to be wide variation in diagnoses at a service level, compounded by many services being unable to return data on diagnoses. 👨‍⚕️- Staffing and joint working: Services reported low clinical vacancy rates overall. Over half reported joint working with neurology and geriatric medicine to enhance the diagnostic process. #DementiaSME

We’re delighted to announce that Professor Nandini Chakraborty has been elected as the next Dean of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, after a ballot with a turnout of 21.1% and a total of 3,674 votes cast. The position of Dean is one of the most senior roles in the College and plays a significant part in our efforts to ensure our workforce meets the needs of communities across the UK. The Dean also provides strategic leadership on psychiatric training and supports the development of a valued and sustainable workforce. Professor Chakraborty will take up her post at the AGM on 16 June, succeeding Professor Subodh Dave who was elected the College’s next President in April.