Minister launches new ‘leading edge’ dementia scheme

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie has cut the first sod for a new housing scheme in Downpatrick for people with dementia.

The £3million development by Trinity Housing Association, in partnership with the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, will provide 12 two bedroom apartments for frail elderly people and 12 one and two bedroom apartments for people with dementia. This leading edge accommodation will deliver housing in an environment where support and domestic care is available 24 hours a day, to allow residents to live as independently as possible.

Minister Margaret Ritchie said: "Last week, the Alzheimer’s Research Trust highlighted the need for more focus on dementia sufferers. The launch of this new scheme is a reminder of what can be achieved when the Social Development Department, the Health Department, the Housing Executive and the voluntary sector work in unison to come up with innovative and much needed housing solutions for some of our most vulnerable citizens."

The Minister continued: "When I launched the New Housing Agenda, I envisaged housing opportunity and choice for all members of society. I want to ensure that everyone has a home that is suited to their own specific needs. This new facility has been very much designed around what will make residents lives better. It will be person centred and will create maximum choice for all who will live here."

The apartments for dementia sufferers will be arranged around secure courtyard gardens with internal communal spaces to cater for organised leisure and recreational activities. The building has been designed with wide corridors and low level glazing to maximise sky visibility and daylight. Subtle signage and assistive technology to monitor residents’ activity, will enhance a sense of well being and create maximum choice for those living in the scheme.

Notes to editors:

1. Trinity Housing Association is one of 32 housing associations registered with the Department for Social Development thereby gaining access to Housing Association Grant for social housing purposes. The association provides a wide range of housing for elderly persons and has developed award winning schemes for the frail elderly and those suffering from dementia. It also provides family housing and housing for people suffering from mental health and learning disability problems.
2. This 24 unit scheme will cost £3million, including site acquisition, construction and associated on costs. The Department, through the Housing Executive, will fund £2.5million through Housing Association Grant, with Trinity financing £0.5million through private financing.
3. The new accommodation is being built by O’Hanlon Farrell Contractors, Newry and is scheduled for completion in January 2012.
4. Day to day management will be carried out by the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust.
5. Photographs and Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9497 or Fearghal O’Reilly on 07920 832 279. Out of office hours please contact Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440.