EastEnders is set to explore young onset dementia when Nigel Bates admits his health issues to his friend Yolande Trueman in tonight's episode of the BBC soap.
The series is working with experts and organisations in the field, including Dementia UK, on the storyline about young onset dementia, which is diagnosed to those experiencing dementia symptoms before the age of 65.
Nigel (Paul Bradley) has deliberately kept his dementia diagnosis a secret from close friend Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden) and others in Walford but has chosen to confide in Yolande (Angela Wynter) after she raised concerns about his wellbeing.
In upcoming episodes, Nigel will share more about his diagnosis and how his dementia is impacting his life, including his decision to return to Walford.
Speaking of the storyline, EastEnders' Executive Producer Chris Clenshaw said: "Nigel’s story will explore the challenges faced by people diagnosed with young on-set dementia and their loved ones, which is why working with Dementia UK has been so vital.
"As Nigel’s story unfolds, viewers will learn more about the decisions he’s made and how he’s coping with such a difficult diagnosis."
Dr Hilda Hayo, Chief Admiral Nurse and CEO of Dementia UK said: "We’re pleased to be working alongside EastEnders to help raise awareness of young on-set dementia, a condition which is often misunderstood.
"Obtaining a diagnosis of young on-set dementia can be challenging, and it is often even harder to find age-appropriate support. Our dementia specialist Admiral Nurses work with people like Nigel across the country, and we know the confusion, fear and anxiety he feels is a reflection of what many people go through every day."
Dr Karen Harrison Dening, Head of Research and Publications at Dementia UK, added: "We hope this storyline helps to shed some light on the challenges a diagnosis of young on-set dementia can bring. It tackles sensitive topics and hard truths, but we know that thousands of people in the UK are facing these every day.
"The production team has shown a strong commitment to delivering a sensitive depiction, which we hope will spark conversations and encourage people to reach out to our dementia specialist Admiral Nurses for support when they need it."
If you have been affected by issues raised in this story, please visit: www.rte.ie/helplines.
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