Changes to the Memory Support Worker Service in Leeds from June 2026
Leeds and York Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (LYPFT) has announced changes to the way the Memory Support Worker (MSW) service will operate across Leeds from 1 June 2026.
The service, which supports people living with dementia and their carers following diagnosis, is currently delivered by Alzheimer’s Society under contract from LYPFT. Following a review, LYPFT will now bring the service in-house and integrate it into its wider Older People’s Service and Memory Assessment Service pathways.
The briefing has been shared with a wide range of partners across Leeds, including GPs, primary care teams, voluntary sector organisations, Healthwatch Leeds, Carers Leeds, Leeds Older People’s Forum, MindWell Leeds and other health and care services.
What the Memory Support Worker Service Does
Memory Support Workers help people living with dementia, alongside carers and families, to:
- Understand a dementia diagnosis
- Access timely support
- Navigate services
- Maintain independence for as long as possible
The service provides ongoing, person-centred support and LYPFT has confirmed that people do not need a formal dementia diagnosis to access support.
What Is Changing?
From 1 June 2026, referrals from professionals will move into the LYPFT Single Point of Access (SPA) system, aligning referrals with wider mental health pathways across Leeds.
Referrals from Professionals
Non-urgent referrals can now be made through the LYPFT SPA referral process.
Public Access and Self-Referrals
People can still access the service directly through the Memory Support Worker duty desk:
Telephone: 0113 231 1727
Email: [email protected]
Alternatively, people can continue to speak to their GP.
No Disruption to Existing Support
LYPFT says there will be no disruption to current support for people already using the service and that existing service users and carers have been contacted directly about the changes.
The Trust also says it will continue working closely with partners across Leeds, including primary care, care providers and voluntary sector organisations, to maintain joined-up support for people’s mental health and wellbeing.
Continued Support from Alzheimer’s Society
Alongside the service changes, Alzheimer’s Society will continue to provide wider dementia support services, including information, advice, emotional support and opportunities for people to connect with others.
More information is available at:
https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/get-support
Dementia Support Line: 0333 150 3456
Additional Support and Information
The briefing also highlights MindWell Leeds as a useful source of up-to-date information about local mental health services and support for both professionals and the public.
For questions about the service changes or referral arrangements,
please call 0113 85 55544
or email: [email protected]
