Actress Vicky McClure has said it's "really frustrating" that there is "still so little funding" for those living with dementia. It comes as the 39-year-old, best known for playing Kate Fleming in hit police drama Line of Duty, is returning to our screens next week with a new instalment of her documentary, Our Dementia Choir
The Trigger Point star formed the musical group in her home town of Nottingham back in 2019, after her late grandmother Iris’ diagnosis of Alzheimer’s taught her the healing power of music. The choir began as part of a documentary, which culminated in a performance at Nottingham’s Royal Concert Hall and also saw a follow-up episode, Dementia Choir at Christmas, broadcast in 2020 in which the actress spoke of the choir through lockdown.
In an interview with the Radio Times, Vicky explained how there had been a "phenomenal" response to the BBC programme. But she added that dementia was “almost a forgotten disease” and that she was “really scared” about those grappling with care-costs.
“People’s response to the TV show has been phenomenal, but it’s also really frustrating because there’s still so little funding for people with dementia,” She told Radio Times: “I wish I could find a cure, but I can’t, so my mission is to create noise for people living with dementia. Dementia choirs are not only cost-effective, but they are also scientifically proven to help.”
“The cost of care for dementia is extortionate,” she added: “People will be struggling with energy bills and then wondering if they can afford to put a loved one in a care home. I’m really, really scared about how this will play out.”
Our Dementia Choir Sings Again, which is a two-part series starting next Monday, will see Vicky reunited with members of the choir. The first instalment sees the group become the first dementia choir to record a charity single at Abbey Road Studios - which is due to be released around the time the episode airs.
Our Dementia Choir Sings Again is due to broadcast on Monday, October 10 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from 9pm.
What is happening where you live? Find out by adding your postcode or visit InYourArea
