A new sheltered dwelling facility for dementia sufferers has been officially opened in Coleraine.

Assembly First Minister Ian Paisley was on hand to launch the state of the art housing project, the Brook Centre of Excellence,.

It provides specialist, homely living accommodation and support services for people with dementia.

It was built at a cost of over £5m, and provides safe, secure accommodation for 61 people in a range of flatlets and bungalows. 




The centre aims to provide care and support based on an assessment of each patient’s individual needs to enable each tenant to live as independently as possible. 



Speaking at the opening Dr Paisley said: “The Executive has set out an ambitious plan in the draft Programme for Government which recognises the need for more social and affordable housing such as this building.



“I am highly impressed by the new facilities around me. This magnificent development is a credit to everyone involved. This building provides quality accommodation that meets the requirements of the occupants and gives them an opportunity to live with dignity and in privacy.

"The design and construction teams have delivered a highly functional building," he said.

The development has been made possible through partnership working between Fold Housing Association, Northern Trust and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.

(BMcC)