Innovation Award Nomination for Dementia Dwelling Grant
Published on 17 July 2018 08:43 AM
Worcestershire’s Dementia Dwelling Grant shortlisted for national innovation award
A Worcestershire partnership has been nominated and shortlisted for an innovation award by the national body for home improvement and handyperson services, Foundations.
The Dementia Dwelling Grant, the first of its kind in the UK, enables people living with dementia to have a range of adaptations made to their home. Grants of up to £750, paid for by the Worcester City Council, are based on the assessment of each individual’s needs.
Nina Warrington, Head of Strategic Housing at Worcester City Council, said: “The aim of the grant is to help reduce feelings of confusion and anxiety among residents living with dementia, and to allow them to live independently in their own homes for as long as possible.”
The funding can be used for changes to the home which help the resident living with dementia to manage their surroundings – for example, from the use of colour and contrast to aid orientation in the home, to bespoke products such as dementia clocks, to items which will help a carer to support the person living with dementia.
In Worcestershire, the number of people with dementia is proportionately higher than in other areas of the country, and these numbers are projected to increase considerably over the next 15 years as people live longer.
The Dementia Dwelling Grant was the county’s answer to a government-led push to ensure people remain independent in their own homes, avoiding costly admission to hospital and residential care.
The grant, now in its second year, is delivered by Care & Repair Worcestershire in partnership with Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire and funded the six Worcestershire district and borough councils. So far, it has provided 440 people with equipment helping them to live well with dementia.
The initial year-long pilot was assessed by the University of Worcester’s Association of Dementia Studies (ADS) and indicates positive findings which has led to the service being continued.
Philip Talbot, CEO of Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire, says “I’m delighted this programme has been recognised on a national level for its innovation and positive impact on the lives of people living with dementia, this has been a true collaborative approach to meeting a vital need in our community.”
Representatives from the partner organisations will attend the award ceremony for Foundations' HIA Awards, on the 18th July at the House of Lords.
To find out more about the Dementia Dwelling Grant and to book an appointment, please contact the Age UK Herefordshire & Worcestershire Dementia Advice team:
Phone: 01905 740950
Email: dementiaadviceteam@ageukhw.org.uk