It may look calm and quiet on the outside but inside is a flurry of activity as contractors are currently clearing out space at the Cator Street Resource Centre in Peckham.
The work is taking place in preparation to turn the ground floor into a brand new, state-of-the-art centre for people with dementia, or other complex needs, and their carers.
The centre, which is expected to be open in summer 2015, has been designed by experts in dementia – including significant input from current service users and their carers through ongoing consultations.
The service users, their families and carers, staff and other organisations such as the Alzheimer’s Society, have had direct input to shape the bright and homely look and feel of the new centre.
Among the new designs that have been included following their contributions is a garden space, a covered external walkway for people to wander safely and a relaxing dining area as part of the summer room at the front of the centre.
Catherine McDonald, cabinet member for health, adult social care and equalities, said: “I am very excited to see work starting on the creation of this innovative centre for older people, which will provide top quality, cutting-edge services for older people with dementia and other complex needs – helping people stay independent and living in their own homes and communities for longer.
“What is most exciting is seeing how the designers have taken into account the ideas of the people who will be using the centre as these are the people who know what is best for them, and I am looking forward to seeing how this all comes together.”
The centre of excellence will host a wide range of services for people with dementia and other complex needs – far more than are currently provided – including:
Nearest tube: Elephant & Castle underground station (Northern and Bakerloo lines).
Nearest Railway Station: Elephant & Castle
Buses from Elephant and Castle: ask bus driver for Burgess Park. Bus numbers: 12, 171, 148, 176, 68, 484, 42, 40, 45