AbstractObjectivesThis paper describes DCM 8 and reports on the initial validation study of DCM 8.MethodsBetween 2001–2003, a series of international expert working groups were established to examine various aspects of DCM with the intention of revising and refining it. During 2004–2005 the revised tool (DCM 8) was piloted in seven service settings in the UK and validated against DCM 7th edition.ResultsAt a group score level, WIB scores and spread of Behavioural Category Codes were very similar, suggesting that group scores are comparable between DCM 7 and 8. Interviews with mappers and focus groups with staff teams suggested that DCM 8 was preferable to DCM 7th edition because of the clarification and simplification of codes; the addition of new codes relevant to person‐centred care; and the replacement of Positive Events with a more structured recording of Personal Enhancers.ConclusionsDCM 8 appears comparable with DCM 7th edition in terms of data produced and is well received by mappers and dementia care staff. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.