title: The role of Dementia Champion in dementia care: Its aspirations, development and training needs (innovative practice).
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The conceptualisation and development of the role of Dementia Champions in clinical practice is ongoing, and dementia specific training has a significant impact on the scope of the role.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  This survey aimed to elicit Dementia Champions' views on their role and associated training needs.
  
  
  METHODS
  Data were collected via an online survey.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Of 188, 34 Dementia Champions (response rate 18%) participated. Most perceived dementia awareness training as useful, but limited. Areas suggested for further development were context specific skills training, education programmes that were formally recognised, and clarification around the expectations of the role.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Expectations of 'champion roles' in dementia need to be re-visited, specifically in relation to the remit of the role and the level of education, preparation and support required for Dementia Champions to become change agents in dementia care.
authors: Centre for Research in Primary and Community Care (CRIPACC), University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK a.mayrhofer@herts.ac.uk.
authors: Andrea
authors: A
authors: Mayrhofer
authors: Centre for Research in Primary and Community Care (CRIPACC), University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.
authors: Claire
authors: C
authors: Goodman
authors: Centre for Research in Primary and Community Care (CRIPACC), University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, UK.
authors: Nigel
authors: N
authors: Smeeton
mesh_terms: D003704:Dementia / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000193:education*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010344:Patient Advocacy / Q000193:education*
keywords: Dementia Champions; dementia care; education; training