CEO Sian Fisher on why the CII is supporting Insurance United Against Dementia

By 2021, the number of people with dementia is set to rise to one million, and as the condition becomes more widespread, its effects are felt not just by individuals and families, but also by businesses. Dementia costs the UK £26bn a year, and globally, $818bn (£606bn) per year, which is more than the cost of cancer and diabetes combined.

Insurance United Against Dementia is an industry-focused campaign supported by Alzheimer’s Society, the charity’s first profession specific fundraising initiative, which has brought together leading figures and companies in insurance to raise awareness about dementia.It also plans to raise £10m over the next five years through personal donations, corporate partnerships and private events – all for vital dementia research programmes.

Chartered Insurance Institute CEO Sian Fisher, sits on the IUAD board, along with representatives from QBE Europe, Aon, Swiss RE, Crawford & Co, Willis Group and RSA.

The CII has helped support the campaign since its inception by hosting IUAD events, as well as promoting awareness through social media campaigns and member magazines and Ms Fisher said: “As the professional body for insurance and financial planning, we are here to act in the interests of the public. Where it is clear that certain risks in life are not fully understood and more work needs to be done to mitigate those risks, then it is our priority to be part of initiatives that raise awareness and make a positive difference.”

“Dementia is now the biggest cause of death for women in the UK and we are keen to stand shoulder to shoulder with the sector, and IUAD, to help find out more about the potential treatments for people living with dementia.”

To find out more about IUAD and to get involved with the campaign, visit alzheimers.org.uk/iuad or join the IUAD Linked In group here.