LESS than a third of NHS dementia staff say the diagnostic process is fit for purpose, a survey has revealed, with respondents describing the system as “shameful and broken.”

Alzheimer’s Research UK surveyed 160 healthcare workers, including GPs, nurses and occupational therapists.

While 91 per cent agreed that a formal diagnosis benefits patients, only 27 per cent believe the current pathway system is delivering.

One worker said: “For people and families living with young onset dementia, the pathways are broken or non-existent, and they get little to no post-diagnostic support. The help is often for those aged 65-plus and is siloed.”

Almost one in four, or 23 per cent of workers, felt they were unable to give the best level of care to patients.

Alzheimer’s Research estimates there are 982,000 people with dementia in Britain, although more than a third do not have a diagnosis.

The charity also surveyed another 500 people affected by the illness, including people with or waiting on a diagnosis, and people caring for loved ones.

It found that 37 per cent waited over a year before seeking help, and that 22 per cent were having to wait more than two years for a diagnosis.

One respondent, who is supporting their mother to get a dementia diagnosis, said: “My mum is struggling with day-to-day life, and there is nothing we can do about it.

“We can’t even officially put a name to it. It’s devastating watching what is happening with no answers, no support. We desperately need the reassurance of a diagnosis, so at least we know.”

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “As part of the 10 Year Health Plan, we will deliver the first ever Modern Service framework for Frailty and Dementia, to help address variations in diagnosis rates, while continuing to fund high quality research into dementia.”