Memory Protection Service – Sunderland, South Tyneside and Gateshead – Public information leaflet
Information for people attending the Memory Protection Service for assessment and diagnosis.
This leaflet may not be reproduced in whole or in part, without the permission of Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust
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Introduction
There are many reasons why people may become forgetful:
- Some medicines and drugs
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Vitamin deficient
- Thyroid problem
These can all cause you to be forgetful. It is important to find the right problem or condition.
Your doctor will be able to reassure you or refer you to a specialist.
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What are the signs and symptoms of memory problems?
- memory loss: forgetting appointments or people’s names
- repeating things: asking the same question many times
- problems with language: hard to get words out when talking
- misplacing things: such as keys, wallet or purse
- solving problems: struggle to follow a recipe or manage bills
- problems with everyday tasks: household chores or work
- reduced judgment: when in new situations, or when things don’t go to plan
- change in personality: becoming withdrawn or more outspoken
- low mood or loss of initiative: can make it hard to motivate yourself. You might struggle with hobbies and daily tasks.
We are all unique. We may all present with different symptoms.
Talk to your doctor if:
- you think these problems are affecting your daily life
- or the life of someone you know
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Who can refer to the Memory Protection Service?
Any health care staff like your GP (family doctor) or District Nurse can refer to us.
You can also contact the service yourself and speak to one of our nurses. We are happy to offer advice on how the service may be of help.
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What happens after the referral?
Go to your doctor’s surgery for blood tests if you have not already. These help rule out common physical causes of memory issues.
Your doctor will send us the blood results. We will then offer you an assessment with one of our team.
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How long does the assessment last?
You will need two appointments.
- Assessment
Your first appointment takes around an hour and a half to two hours - Results
Your second appointment takes around 45 minutes to an hour.
You may need extra assessments before your results appointment. We’ll explain this to you if you need them.
- Assessment
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Who will I see in the assessment?
The team consists of specialist trained staff. They all have different roles and skills, such as:
- Doctors
- Nurses
- Psychologists
- occupational therapists
You will see the person best able to help you. It may be one or more members of the team
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What happens in the assessment?
A Community Nurse will meet with you and carry out your assessment.
The nurse will take time to understand you as a whole person.
They will ask about your health, daily life, and what support you need.
We will complete important paperwork with you. This will include:
- Your health history and current problems
- Your daily life, background, and what matters to you
- Your physical health and mobility
- Your communication and mental health needs
- Any risks or support needs
- Views from carers or family if appropriate
- Planning your care and agree how information is shared
Please chat with a member of staff if you have any questions.
The team will use this information to make a care plan for you. This may include:
- Brain scans
- Occupational therapy assessment
- Neuropsychological assessment
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What happens next?
We will send a summary letter to you and person who referred you.
We will discuss the assessment results at your second appointment.
We will also talk about treatment and management options.
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What are the benefits of having your memory assessed?
Knowing the reasons behind changes in memory or thinking can be helpful. Many people feel relieved to learn what might be causing the issues. This can also help reduce anxiety.
There may also be medicines which can help. Or treatment for other conditions linked to the main issues.
Getting your memory checked can help you and your family find support. It also helps you plan for the future and adjust to make things easier.
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Contact the Memory Protection Service
For further advice and support, phone us on 0191 566 5422
Talk to your GP or our nurses if you worry about your memory.
If you have concerns about someone else, get them to see their GP. -
Comments, suggestions, compliments or complaints
You can talk to a staff member or use the contacts listed below. Other ways to give feedback: www.cntw.nhs.uk/yourfeedback
Your Voice
Email: [email protected]
Use this email to share your thoughts on the care you have received. Your feedback could be any type of experience, good or bad. You can also ask us to let you know what happens with your feedback.
Comments and complaints
If you believe something went wrong, let us know. This will help us make sure it does not happen again.
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 0191 245 6672
Write to: Complaints Department, Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust, St Nicholas Hospital, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 3XT.
Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)
PALS offer a free, confidential service for any concerns about your care. They give advice and support to patients, families and carers.
PALS South of Tyne
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 0800 328 4397
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More about this leaflet
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Call the Patient Information Centre on 0191 246 7288Copyright © 2026 Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust
Ref: PIC/700/0426 April 2026 V5
Review date: 2029Website: www.cntw.nhs.uk
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