DAME Barbara Windsor’s widower says she would be “proud” as ministers announce plans to speed up dementia diagnosis through tech.
Scott Mitchell said hero Babs would “not believe” the impact her campaigning had on Britain – nearly five years after she died from Alzheimer’s.
“She won’t just be remembered for her bra flying off in Carry On Camping,” he told the Sun.
“There’s a much more poignant, wonderful, legacy here.”
The Government is announcing a target that by 2029 nearly all patients will be diagnosed within 18 weeks of a referral.
They want the science and tech industry to come up with ideas to turbocharge diagnosis – backed by an initial £5m.
It includes things like early warning blood tests and AI assistants to help people with their daily routine.
Mr Mitchell, who is the “people’s champion” for the national dementia programme, vowed to never give up campaigning in memory of Dame Barbara.
“Caring for Barbara really changed me,” he said. “I saw things I wish I’d never seen. And I feel for other people who are going through it.
“It’s one of the cruellest things that you will ever go through. Watching someone you love disappear slowly and painfully in front of your eyes.
“Barbara and I had been together 27 years, but no-one can prepare you for the day that a loved one will look at you and ask you who you are, or how they know you.”
He praised his partner – former EastEnders actress Tanya Franks – for supporting him.
The pair bonded through their Alzheimer’s campaigning – her stepdad Derek had the disease and passed away last year.
He said: “It’s a cause very close to Tanya’s heart as well, it’s important to her that we make change.”
Scott also hailed the “brilliant” EastEnders storyline in which Nigel Bates was diagnosed with dementia and is being cared for by his pal Phil Mitchell.
Science Minister Lord Patrick Vallance said: “We must grasp the opportunities that science and technology offers in getting people the early and effective diagnosis they need to continue living fulfilled lives while reducing the pressure on hospitals.”
