Those who have used the helpline in the past have said that; “It is such a lonely existence caring for a husband who is slowly becoming more and more confused and no longer the loving partner you once idolised, that having a sympathetic ear who is willing to listen and give support is priceless, I would like to thank all those who have helped me through the early stages of my caring. Please keep up the good work!!” Key statistics 2006 - 2007 • 65 trained volunteers give around 8,800 hours of their time. • 5,122 calls were received. • 36.1% of calls were received out with office hours and over 3% from outside Scotland. • Information was sent out to 38.5% of callers. • Follow-up information is sent out within a week to 97% of callers. • It costs almost £20, on average, to answer every call In 2006 – 2007 the Dementia Helpline cost £96,000 per annum – consisting of staff costs, information costs, volunteer training, and, importantly, costs to ensure that the telephone number remains a free phone number. The cost of running the helpline represents amazing value and we could not do it without the input of our dedicated volunteers. The donation of their time is worth over £47,000 based on the minimum wage. Given that many of the calls require counselling skills, legal knowledge and medical knowledge, the real rate of their donation could be many times more. Our Dementia Helpline is funded entirely from voluntary income.