Make Dementia a Priority

Dementia, the UK’s biggest killer, is a growing health and social care crisis that touches millions yet is too often not prioritised in policy decisions. The Make Dementia a Priority (MDAP) programme exists to change that.

Launched in July 2023, the MDAP programme is Alzheimer’s Society’s strategic initiative to drive long-term policy change, by bringing new and innovative evidence to the system, harnessing the power of external counsel and mobilising our messages in new and bold ways. Built on a simple premise that meaningful change for people living with dementia begins with shifting the priorities of those in power, it aims to significantly raise dementia up the national and local policy making agenda.

MDAP combines credible, system ready research with lived experience and a strategic focus on influencing levers. It has shaped political conversations, changed local commissioning, and empowered people across the organisation (and its external supporters) to become part of our influencing voice.

What sets MDAP apart is its systemic focus, changing how dementia is understood across health and care. With momentum building, the Alzheimer's Society is positioned to shape dementia’s role in the next decade of reform, ensuring today’s attention translates into tomorrow’s action.