Expressions of interest are now being accepted from care providers for funding to improve the surroundings of people living with dementia.
Local authorities working in partnership with social care providers and the NHS will have the opportunity to bid for a share of £50 million capital funding to invest during 2013-14. The funding will be used to improve care environments to help people with dementia and their carers manage their condition better. Details of the funding were first outlined on the 25 October by Secretary of State for Health, Jeremy Hunt.
For further details and to register interest in applying to take part in the programme see the application guidance. A letter from David Flory, Deputy NHS Chief Executive provides an overview of the project and a summary of the timeline. Successful projects will begin from 2013-14 and will be subject to national evaluation.
Research by The King’s Fund demonstrates that good design can help with the management of dementia. People with dementia are less likely to get confused or become distressed within an environment designed with their needs in mind. Examples include an intelligent use of colour to mark out different areas to aid memory, clearer signage and the opportunity to take part in activities such as gardening.