New Torbay dementia project will be 'world class'

'The work that is going on at Rowcroft is absolutely fantastic'

Work planned by Torbay’s Rowcroft Hospice for people with dementia has been hailed as ‘world class’.

Torbay’s cabinet committee was discussing support across the three towns for people living with the condition, and heard how the hospice planned a ‘fantastic’ new facility.

The proposed ‘Lavender Square’, which is just part of a revamp of the entire hospice site, will provide a 60-bed specialist dementia home for six households of 10 residents. Planning permission has already been granted.

Cllr Nick Bye (Con, Wellswood) said: “It will be something world class, and something we can all be hugely proud of.”

Recent research has highlighted Torbay’s pressing need for specialist dementia care to cater for its ageing population.

Cllr Bye went on: “This outlines the challenges, not just in Torbay but nationally.

“There is a huge challenge to meet the needs of those with dementia, and those who care for people with dementia.”

Cllr Hayley Tranter (Con, Goodrington with Roselands) added: “The work that is going on at Rowcroft is absolutely fantastic.

“It’s almost something that happens somewhere else, and not something that happens here in Torbay. I’m really looking forward to work getting started.”

The cabinet committee gave its unanimous backing to the scheme.