Scotland’s top dementia researchers are demanding a bigger slice of UK government funding, arguing that they are being sidelined despite the country leading crucial advances in brain health, diagnosis, and treatment. Alzheimer Scotland, backed by former First Minister Henry McLeish, has called for 10% of new dementia research funding to be allocated north of the border.
Calls for Fair Funding Share
Alzheimer Scotland CEO Henry Simmons has formally written to the Secretary of State for Scotland, Ian Murray MP, urging a more equitable distribution of UK dementia research funding. He claims Scottish scientists face restrictions that limit their ability to compete for grants, despite their contributions to groundbreaking work in the field.
Simmons stressed that while Scotland has world-class researchers, its dementia research funding is largely drawn from the Scottish health budget, which is already under immense pressure.
- The UK government has committed £100 million to dementia research.
- Alzheimer Scotland is requesting 10% of that funding to support Scotland’s work.
- Current funding mechanisms limit Scotland’s access to competitive research grants.
Simmons believes this funding boost could transform Scottish dementia research, helping balance the portfolio between diagnosis, treatment, and research focused on lived experience.
“A Seat at the Table”
For a decade, Alzheimer Scotland has pushed for a “proper seat at the table” within the UK dementia research framework. Despite this, Simmons says Scottish institutions remain disadvantaged.
“Some of the best scientists in the world are based in Scotland. They deserve the backing needed to continue their work,” he said.
Scotland has already been leading efforts in brain health, including hosting the Brain Health Summit in St Andrews, which Simmons called a “global focus on what Scotland can do.” He insists that securing additional research funding would have a “remarkable” impact on scientific progress.
A Global Leader in Brain Health?
Former First Minister Henry McLeish echoed these sentiments, arguing that Scotland is at the forefront of brain health research but needs adequate investment to cement its position globally.
“If we properly funded and invested in our research, Scotland could become ‘the place to be’ for dementia studies,” he said.
McLeish urged both the Scottish and UK governments to recognize Scotland’s leadership in the field and match that recognition with financial support. “We are so close, but without the right backing, we can’t reach the top tier internationally. It requires political will and, crucially, funding.”
Women’s Brain Health and Prevention Strategies
Simmons highlighted that dementia remains one of the leading causes of death among women, stressing the need for targeted brain health initiatives. He called for greater focus on how menopause affects brain health and dementia risk, an area he believes has been overlooked.
Beyond clinical trials, Simmons sees opportunities for incorporating preventative brain health measures into primary care. A simple assessment during routine checkups could make a significant difference.
“Imagine you’re getting your blood pressure checked and it’s a little high. What if the practitioner also offered a quick brain health assessment? It could help people spot risks early and modify behaviors before issues develop.”
Small lifestyle changes, such as improving sleep, increasing physical activity, and reducing social isolation, can significantly impact brain health. Simmons believes these steps should be integrated into Scotland’s healthcare strategy.
The Role of Diet and Regulation
McLeish pointed to mounting evidence linking diet to dementia risk, particularly high consumption of red meat, fats, and sugar. He argues that government regulation should play a bigger role in shaping public health policy.
“We don’t just need a sickness service; we need a health service. What if governments focused on keeping people healthy rather than just treating them when they get sick?”
He acknowledged that implementing stricter health regulations could be politically challenging, especially if they impact corporate profits. However, he believes such policies are necessary. “Tough decisions have to be made. If some companies take a hit, so be it. The priority should be public health.”
A Cross-Government Approach
McLeish emphasized that meaningful change will only come through collaboration between the Scottish and UK governments. He urged politicians to move beyond party lines and work together to improve dementia research and care.
“We’re all on the same side when it comes to tackling dementia. Instead of attacking each other, we need dialogue, collaboration, and shared ambition.”
A unified strategy, he said, should include increased research funding, better community care, and stronger preventative health policies. “We need a new deal for brain health. If we get this right, Scotland could set the gold standard for dementia research worldwide.”
