We understand that experiencing problems with your memory can be very worrying, for you and for those close to you.
There are different ways to get help, depending on what your need is. As well as the support that we can offer you at the Memory Assessment Service there are other services that may be well placed to help. We have listed some of them here.
Get referred to the Memory Assessment Service
If you are in Brighton and Hove you can usually get referred to our Memory Assessment Service through your GP. To do this, book a doctor’s appointment with your surgery. Write down what you are noticing about the changes to your thinking and memory and how it is affecting you and the people around you.
Ask someone who knows you well to accompany you to your appointment if possible.
You can find out more about the referral process on our ‘what to expect’ page.
If you are already being supported by the Memory Assessment Service and you have questions or queries, you can contact the patient care advice team on the number below.
Memory Assessment Service
0300 555 0175Mental health support
Access the Specialist Older Adults Mental Health Service (SOAMHS)
Those with different kinds of mental health conditions and more challenging cases of dementia may be referred to the Specialist Older Adult Mental Health Service (SOAMHS). This service is provided by Sussex Partnership Foundation NHS Trust.
Referrals are usually made through the GP. If you are already being supported by SOAMHS and you need help, you can contact them through the channels they will have provided to you.
Wellbeing and emotional support
Talk to us
Our team of Memory Support Workers are here to offer you emotional and wellbeing support. Their focus is on improving people’s quality of life. So feel free to call us and ask to speak with your Memory Support Worker whenever you need to. They can help connect you with local community groups. Our phone number is 0300 555 0175.
Sussex Mental Healthline
0800 0309 500Listening, support, advice and signposting. 24 hours a day. Provided by the Sussex Partnership Foundation NHS Trust.
Dementia UK helpline
0800 888 6678Advice and support to people worried about memory, people with a diagnosis and carers.
Samaritans
116 123For anyone who’s struggling to cope, who needs someone to listen without judgement or pressure. 24 hours a day.
Emergency support
If you need immediate medical assistance, please call 📞 999 for an ambulance.
If you feel you are not able to keep yourself safe, and do not need immediate medical
assistance contact:
Mental Health Rapid Response Service
0300 304 007824 hours a day. Provided by Sussex Partnership Foundation NHS Trust.
Practical support
Your Memory Support Worker is here to help with practical support, so do feel free to call us any time to speak with your support worker if you’d like help with this. Some of the main places they may signpost you to are listed here.
You can also find lots of practical information about dementia at the Alzheimer’s Society website.
Access Point
01273 29 55 55This is the main point of contact for the local authority’s Adult Social Care service. They can carry out an assessment to understand your care and support needs, or those of your loved one, regardless of your eligibility for state-funded care.
Carers Hub
The Carers Hub is another way for you to find signposting to practical help and support as a care giver. It offers offering a wide range of services and comprehensive local resources for carers of all ages. You can sign up here for the quarterly newsletter which will keep you informed on a regular basis.
Dementia Connect support line
0333 150 3456Listening, support, advice and signposting to wider information about dementia. This helpline is available mainly during daytime hours, and some evenings. It is UK-wide service provided by Alzheimer’s Society.
LGBTQ+ support
Dementia support for LGBTQ+ people in Brighton & Hove is provided by the Switchboard. The Memory Assessment Service works closely with the Switchboard to learn from and support each other. Services include monthly Rainbow Café groups, online meetings for carers, one-to-one advice and support, and training.
Visit the dementia support page on the Switchboard website for more information.
Find out what to expect from us
Brighton and Hove Memory Assessment Service is here to support you - find out what to expect when you are referred to our service
What to expect