Directors of Social Services have welcomed the new National Dementia Strategy as the basis for substantial and significant changes in attitudes to people with dementia and to the way the quality of care is improved. Meanwhile local authorities have said educating as many people as possible about the signs of dementia will ensure councils are kept informed about who needs extra help.

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A new report has warned that national targets and inspection regimes often override the local needs and demands of children’s services. The report, ‘Fitter for the Future’ said there were major concerns among directors of children’s services about the impact on local priorities of the new performance assessment framework.

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A sense of belonging to the community helps to bring people together and overcome suspicions. People who feel that they belong to their local area will get involved with local schemes and initiatives, will help their neighbours, will challenge inappropriate behaviour and will welcome newcomers and help them settle. This document from Communities and Local Government offers suggestions for improving a sense of belonging.

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