An innovative project aimed at providing accommodation to older people with dementia and respite care for long term carers has been launched.

The new unit which has been boosted by a £1.3 million grant from The Housing Corporation will hopefully open in March 2005. It will serve the west of Essex including Ongar and is a joint venture between Abbeyfield Societies based in Basildon, Billericay, Brentwood and Epping.

Patron of the Abbeyfield Fundraising Appeal, Lord Petre said: "This project which responds to a pressing need in the locality is to be greatly welcomed."

The scheme will feature specially designed gardens, care aimed at individual needs and planned activities designed for people with dementia.

Chairman of Abbeyfield Epping, Chris Barlow, said: "I'm really excited this project is underway. I would like to thank those who have contributed to our fundraising appeal so far. We have had a super response, but still have some more to raise."

Published Wednesday January 28, 2004

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