Building works at Knowl Park House have come to an end, with Kirklees Council making final preparations before doors open to residents living with dementia.
The old two storey building has made way for a high-tech, single storey, purpose-built facility that better meets the needs of people living with dementia including those with physical disabilities, sensory, and mobility needs.
Situated on Crowlees Road next to Knowl Park in Mirfield, the new facilities will provide dementia care for vulnerable residents and give carers much needed respite from looking after their loved ones.
The new facilities incorporate design features to give maximum flexibility and be fully inclusive. A key collaboration with the University of Stirling’s Dementia Services Design Centre (DSDC) has ensured the facilities incorporate dementia design principles and meet the DSDC dementia design standards.
From the colour of the paint on the walls to the layout of rooms – everything has been envisaged through the eyes of someone living with dementia.
Modern facilities include a Home Therapy Zone incorporating a homely open plan lounge, dining, and kitchen area; an Activity Zone incorporating a large arts and crafts room; and a Wellbeing Zone incorporating a sensory and cinema room and a spa.
Throughout the building, people living with dementia can make use of the latest assistive technology that will enable them to maintain their independence as much as possible.
This continues outside in the sensory garden with more outdoor lighting, improved pathways, plenty of seating, a gazebo, and outside all weather coated handrails throughout allowing service users to move around freely.
Alongside the day service, which will run Monday to Friday with potential to expand to evenings and weekends, is the Centre for Excellence. The centre will offer advice and support for people with a dementia diagnosis, their carers, and adults and children with other physical and sensory disabilities.
The centre has a bungalow which is a mock-up of a Dementia Friendly home environment displaying the latest support techniques and practices in a safe and secure setting. There will also be opportunities for partnership working and the focus will be on early intervention, so people are better able to stay well and independent at home for as long as possible.
Councillor Beverley Addy, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, said: “I am delighted to announce the completion of our fantastic, state-of-the-art day service facilities for people living with dementia. This is such a major investment for the council as we look to focus our efforts and resources on areas of the market where there are fewer alternatives.
“Having visited the facilities myself, I know they will make the lives of those living with dementia and their loved ones, a happier and more independent one. I look forward to seeing how service users interact and make use of the latest equipment and technology that will enable them to live more independently for as long as possible.”
Phil Shaw, Managing Director-Building North, at Tilbury Douglas, added: “This project showcases what can be achieved when construction, community, and care come together. It’s a shining example of how we can deliver both outstanding facilities and meaningful social contributions, which is at the heart of what we do.”
