Protest … members of Alzheimer’s Society with MP David Miliband.

MP David Miliband yesterday revealed his first-hand experience of the impact of Alzheimer’s, when he was lobbied to save a vital support worker’s job.

He told carers who are urging him to act that his grandmother had suffered from the devastating illness.

June Coser, 80, chairman of the South Tyneside Alzheimer’s Carers Funding Committee, said she was moved by his words – and believed he would do all he could to help.

She said: “Mr Miliband explained to us that it was a subject close to his heart. He described how his mother had to look after his grandmother, and the distress it had caused.

“I feel a lot better about the chances of getting this funding than I was – I am a lot more hopeful.”

Worried carers met the South Shields MP at his Westoe Road office, to press him to help find the money needed to keep Liz Williams in her post. Estimated annual funding of up to £40,000 ends on March 31, and an alternative source has yet to be found.

Carers say her exit would leave a huge gap in the link between the support sufferers receive upon diagnoses, and later help.

Of the 45-minute meeting, Mrs Coser added: “Mr Miliband was true to his word, and met with us and listened to what we had to say.

“He seemed quite upset when we told him about the work Liz does, and how much we need her.

“He said he will get in touch with the relevant funding people straight away.”

The Gazette revealed yesterday how Mrs Williams also helps run clubs and support groups for sufferers, and provides a link with health services.

Three Alzheimer’s Society staff members, as well as representatives of other carers groups, attended the meeting.

David Haswell, 30, director of East Boldon-based Bluebird Care, who contacted Mr Miliband on behalf of carers, said the discussion had been “positive”. He added: “There seems to be a lot of momentum building to try to secure funding. Hopefully, this post can be secured in the short term, and then the longer term can be looked at.

“He listened, but also asked carers if the Alzheimer’s Society could put pressure on the respective funding bodies.”

Mr Miliband, who received a petition from carers, has already written to Jeremy Hughes, the Alzheimer’s Society’s chief executive in London, asking him to re-think priorities.

And Jarrow MP Stephen Hepburn has also confirmed he plans to write to relevant funding bodies.

Carers describe Mrs Williams as ‘selfless’, and say her role and vast experience provide a vital lifeline to them. She also helps run dementia cafes.

Caroline Burden, the Alzheimer’s Society’s North East area manager, said the dedication of carers was testament to the vital role of the society.

She added: “We are committed to working with carers and professional partners, in making every effort to secure funding to maintain services.

“We are grateful to Mr Miliband for agreeing to meet with carers and representatives.”

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