Jayne Goodrick, hailing from Rhuddlan in Wales (UK), received a “Points of Light” award on 1 March, in recognition of her work as an advocate for people with dementia and their carers. Following her husband Chris Roberts’ diagnosis with early onset dementia at age 50, Ms Goodrick has worked as a carer herself and as an advocate, fighting for the empowerment of carers and the rights of people with dementia. She has consulted with the UK and Welsh governments, giving input on the Welsh Dementia Action Plan, for example.
Mr Roberts, Vice-Chairperson of the European Working Group of People with Dementia (EWGPWD) and an international speaker on the subject of dementia, is supported every step of the way by his wife and the couple also featured in a BBC Panorama documentary in 2016, looking at their family’s life since the diagnosis.
Ms Goodrick was presented with her award by the Secretary of State for Wales, Alun Cairns MP (pictured, left), at number 10 Downing Street, the British Prime Minister’s Office (Pictured, right: Ms Goodrick and Mr Roberts outside the door to Number 10).
In a personal letter, Prime Minister Theresa May said: “You have shown remarkable resilience and dedication in so openly sharing your personal experiences of caring for your husband Chris with his diagnosis of dementia. Your expertise by experience is providing invaluable support to thousands of carers across the UK and to the work of government and charities in tackling this terrible condition.”
Ms Goodrick said: “I am truly honoured to have been awarded the Points of Light award for doing what we do. I say we, because the work around highlighting and addressing the stigma, the inequality, and the loss of rights for all people affected by dementia, is a team effort.