Take a look inside a dementia-safe Leeds housing project designed for older people

Pictures have been released of the new development, Amblers Orchard, which includes communal lounges for residents, dining areas and dementia-friendly interior design.

Housing and healthcare providers Home Group say the building is unique because it aims to prevent loneliness – something which has affected older people during the pandemic.

Residents will be provided with 24/7 support in the hope to reduce their dependency on primary care services.

Amblers Orchard will host 22 two-bedroom apartments and 41 one-bedroom apartments, as well as communal lounges and dining areas.

There will also be areas for Tingley locals and families to enjoy with residents, including a salon, café, and activity space.

Amblers Orchard is one of seven buildings being constructed under Leeds City Council's extra care programme and the work is due to be completed later this year.

Lindsay Courtney, clinical lead in intermediate care and reablement at Home Group, said: “As we’ve seen during the pandemic, social isolation and loneliness has a significant impact on the older generation.

“Our philosophy is to connect communities and offer a place for multigenerational interaction. We want people to feel empowered and encouraged to maintain and develop skills.

“This scheme will keep our customers active for longer, less isolated and enjoying the things they love, while reducing their dependency on primary care by managing conditions through our service.”

Gill Hopkinson of Blake Hopkinson Interior Design, said: “We aim to create inclusive spaces that promote wellbeing, comfort and high-quality interior design, and provide an environment that residents are proud to call home.

“There will be a variety of communal areas, each with individual style and identity, to welcome family and friends, feel relaxed in and socialise and, underlying this, we are also responding to the differing needs identified for living well into older age.”

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