This paper aims to set out principles of good practice for services for people suffering from dementia. It is intended to be used by all those who are involved in operating, planning or monitoring services for these people. It begins by stating some key principles which should underlie the provision and development of services. The major part of the paper attempts to apply these key principles in practical terms; first for frontline staff and secondly for the managers of services. A discussion of the applicability of the concept of citizen advocacy is included as an appendix.