Work has begun on a new care home in Barnsley, with plans to achieve the highest accreditation in design for dementia.

Designed by Watson Batty Architects, Springfield Vale will be a 33-bed complex care home operated by Exemplar Health Care.

The scheme comprises three units of accommodation, each providing 10 bedrooms with communal areas, an activities hub, a therapy room, a hair/beauty salon, and communal accessible gardens.

The development will provide nursing care for adults living with complex needs arising from brain injuries, dementia, mental health conditions, neuro-disabilities, and physical disabilities.

Understanding the importance that specialist design for aging and dementia has in assisting independently living, Exemplar Health Care has selected Springfield Vale to be assessed by the University of Stirling’s world-renowned Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC).

The centre draws on research and best practice from around the world by providing comprehensive up-to-date resources on all aspects of dementia design, helping to translate into policy-informing practice.

And it houses a design and technology suite showcasing inspiring technology and equipment, a virtual care home that allows for visualisation of new ideas, and a conference centre which hosts regular international masterclasses bringing together dementia care experts from around the world.

With construction underway, Springfield Vale is in the detailed design stage of the accreditation process.

The building will be audited by the DSDC early next year when operational following completion in December.

Watson Batty has already delivered 10 new homes for Exemplar Health Care, with a further four developments currently on site.

Gemma Bottomley at Watson Batty said: :“We are delighted that Exemplar Health Care is working with us to achieve this important recognition with Stirling DSDC.

“This is the highest accolade achievable for dementia care environments and will become a benchmark for future developments to come.

“Statistics indicate that by 2030 there will be over one million people living with dementia in the UK and we have a duty as designers to ensure that our projects are designed with the user in mind, not just for care homes, but for all public buildings and external spaces where more independent living can be supported.”

Charlotte Lloyd, director of commissioning at Exemplar Health Care, added: “We are proud to be working with Watson Batty Architects to create a care home that sets a new standard for dementia care.

“At Exemplar Health Care we are committed to creating homes that support independence, dignity, and quality of life for people with complex needs.

“Springfield Vale will be a reflection of this commitment, offering state-of-the-art facilities designed to promote wellbeing while ensuring a truly-person-centred approach to care.

“The accreditation from the Dementia Services Development Centre will not only recognise our continued efforts, but also help us lead the way in innovative design in the complex care sector.

“As we expand our services, we remain dedicated to creating high-quality care environments that empower people to live fulfilling lives.”