Butterfly scheme takes off in Carmarthenshire

People with dementia or memory impairment can now receive more personalised care in hospital, thanks to a new scheme introduced to Carmarthenshire hospitals.

The fully bilingual Butterfly Scheme, launched thus week at Prince Philip and Glangwili Hospitals, will increase staff awareness of the needs of patients with dementia or memory impairment and empower the patient and their carers to be a part of the scheme. If they choose to opt in, their involvement is indicated by a discreet butterfly symbol above their bed.

The Butterfly Scheme applies to every member of staff who comes into contact with patients. It supports them by providing education in basic interaction skills and the introduction of a carer sheet allows family carers and care home staff to share their valuable insight, allowing the patient to be seen and understood as the unique individual they are.

By 2021, the number of people with dementia across Wales is projected to increase by 31% and by as much as 44% in some rural areas.

The rising numbers of people with dementia in Wales is a trend which is common across the world. There are some challenges that are specific to Wales, including the need to address the impact on rural communities, as well as the Welsh Language which is especially important for those who may only understand or be able to communicate in their first language as their illness progresses.

Gill Webber, Acute Services Nurse Manager at Hywel Dda Health Board and Chair of Carmarthenshire Dementia Operational Group, welcomed the launch at the hospital today: “The Butterfly Scheme empowers those whose memory is either permanently affected by dementia or is temporarily affected by illness – which could be any of us – to make this clear to hospital staff should they be admitted to a Hywel Dda hospital. It is wonderful that we can also ensure that our Welsh speaking patients can fully benefit from this scheme in their first language.

“The Butterfly Scheme ensures patients receive more effective and appropriate care, it reduces their stress levels and increases their safety and well-being, and staff are happier, too.”

Director of Therapies and Health Science and Executive Lead for Dementia, Kathryn Davies, said: “It can often be difficult for staff and others who may only have brief contact with a patient to recognise that the patient has specific needs because of dementia or memory impairment.

“It has been received extremely well in Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion and I am pleased to see staff and patients in Carmarthenshire benefit from this wonderful scheme.”

Improving dementia services is a key priority for Hywel Dda Health Board and this scheme is a very positive development to support vulnerable individuals using our services.

Rita Thomas, Carmarthenshire County Council joint commissioning officer, said: “This is one of a number of improvements we are making to help enhance the patient experience and make their stay in hospital a little more comfortable.”

A Wales Dementia Helpline is available offering a confidential listening and support service for carers or if you have dementia. You can call Freephone 0808 808 2235 or simply text the word HELP followed by the details you require to 81066 (e.g. HELP counselling agency in SA31).