By Talking Health TV –

Building works at Knowl Park House in Mirfield have been completed for a new state-of-the-art dementia care facility, with Kirklees Council making final preparations to welcome residents.

The old two-storey building has been replaced with 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.

Located on Crowlees Road next to Knowl Park in Mirfield, the new facilities aim to provide dementia care for vulnerable residents and offer carers much-needed respite.

Specialist Features and Facilities

The new facilities incorporate design features that ensure maximum flexibility and inclusivity.

A key collaboration with the University of Stirling’s Dementia Services Design Centre (DSDC) has ensured that the facilities adhere to 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 designed from the perspective of someone living with dementia.

Modern amenities include a Home Therapy Zone with a homely open-plan lounge, dining, and kitchen area; an Activity Zone featuring a large arts and crafts room; and a Wellbeing Zone with a sensory and cinema room and a spa.

Assistive Technology

Throughout the building, residents can make use of the latest assistive technology to help maintain their independence.

This continues outside in the sensory garden, which features enhanced outdoor lighting, improved pathways, ample seating, a gazebo, and all-weather-coated handrails throughout, allowing service users to move around freely.

Centre for Excellence

In addition to the day service, which operates Monday to Friday with potential expansion to evenings and weekends, the Centre for Excellence 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 includes a bungalow that serves as a mock-up of a Dementia Friendly home environment, showcasing the latest support techniques and practices in a safe and secure setting.

There will also be opportunities for partnership working, with a focus on early intervention to help people stay well and independent at home for as long as possible.

‘Major Investment’

Councillor Beverley Addy, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, expressed her excitement: “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.”

‘Coming Together’

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.”

How to Access Support

Support from Knowl Park House is available by referral only. Individuals should contact Kirklees Council’s Community Health and Social Care Hub on 0300 304 5555 for more information.