The 24 flats will be specially adapted to provide a dementia-friendly environment for customers who may be experiencing early-onset dementia. The aim is to enable those with early-onset dementia to continue to live as independently as possible within the community for as long as possible.

Elaine Cannon, service improvement manager at River Clyde Homes, said: “RCH is delighted to be able to provide specially designed dementia-friendly homes at our St. Stephen’s development and we have been working closely with a number of partner agencies. We are looking forward to welcoming customers to our new homes which have a range of dementia-friendly finishes including a sensory garden.”

The firm expects the flats to be available to let around December 2021/January 2022, although they may be ready sooner.

Dementia-friendly adaptations include:

• Colour contrasting floors and walls on each landing
• Individually coloured flat entrance doors
• Visually identifiable hot and cold taps
• Different coloured toilet seat from sanitary ware
• Clear fronted kitchen wall and base units
• Level access showers to some flats
• sensory garden adjacent to the block
• Lift access to all floors
• Estate caretaking service

Properties will be open to single person or couple households where one or both persons have had a diagnosis of early onset dementia. 

Referrals will also be accepted via HSCP or voluntary care organisations.