Norden House the mental health & dementia facilities magazine April 2025 Empowering residents to live fulfilling lives THE ROLE OF RUBBER p14 How flooring is evolving to meet hygiene standards RADIATORS p17 Maintaining safety, while keeping patients warm
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mhdf magazine 3 Norden House in West Sussex Contents 5 News A round-up of the latest news and events in the sector 8 Norden House: patient-centred care Norden House reimagines elderly care by drawing inspiration from the Hogeweyk village model in the Netherlands, championing autonomy and a sense of freedom for residents 12 Design in Mental Health 2025 preview The leading event for design in mental healthcare returns to Manchester Central Editor’s note April 2025 Rethinking dementia care: a village with a vision As the UK faces a rising tide of dementia diagnoses, the conversation around care is beginning to shift – from clinical oversight to dignity, autonomy and community. At the heart of this evolution is the ground-breaking Hogeweyk model from the Netherlands; a purpose-built dementia village where residents live in familiar, homely environments, engage in everyday activities, and are supported discreetly by trained staff posing as neighbours, shopkeepers and companions. Hogeweyk’s success has captured international attention, not just for its innovative design, but for its radical reimagining of what care can and should be. It treats people not as patients to be managed, but as individuals deserving of meaningful lives shaped by freedom, identity and connection. Now, this transformative approach is beginning to take root in the UK. Pilot projects and purpose-built communities inspired by Hogeweyk are emerging – from Kent to Scotland – demonstrating a growing recognition that quality of life in dementia care must go beyond medication and monitoring. On page 8, we explore Norden House in West Sussex – a care home inspired by the Hogeweyk village model, designed to give residents living with dementia a sense of independence, autonomy and freedom at every stage of their journey. These UK adaptations reflect a powerful truth: when we design care environments around people rather than systems, outcomes improve – not only for residents, but for families and staff too. The challenge now is to move from pilot to policy, ensuring such models aren’t the exception but the future standard. As we look ahead, the Hogeweyk model stands as a beacon, and a reminder that compassion, creativity and community can reshape even the most complex aspects of care. Helen Adkins Editor [email protected] the mental health & dementia facilities magazine Publishers Stable Publishing Limited SBC House, Restmor Way Wallington, Surrey SM6 7AH, England. t. 020 8288 1080 f. 020 8288 1099 e. [email protected] healthcaredm.co.uk Editor Helen Adkins Production Nicola Cann Design Gemma England Media Sales Manager Barnaby Goodman-Smith Sales Director Julian Walter Managing Director Toby Filby The publishers do not necessarily agree with views expressed by contributors and cannot accept responsibility for claims made by manufacturers and authors, nor do they accept any responsibility for any errors in the subject matter of this publication. 14 Interface flooring: the role of rubber Ralph Leeson, UK manager of Resilient Surfaces at Interface, discusses the evolving role of flooring in meeting increased hygiene standards in response to COVID-19 17 Thermaskirt Ethan Wadsworth, sales and marketing director at DiscreteHeat, explains how to ensure spaces are warm and comfortable for patients and staff, while maintaining strict hygiene and safety standards 14 17 8 mhdf Leader April 2025.indd 3 10/04/2025 15:25
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mhdf magazine 5 NEWS Salisbury District Hospital has opened a new 24-bed ward aimed at improving care for older patients, particularly those living with dementia. Imber Ward, located in the hospital’s new £14 million Elizabeth Building, is the Trust’s largest capital project in almost 20 years and was part-funded by local hospital charity the Stars Appeal. Designed with input from patients, families, staff and clinicians, the ward includes a mix of four-bed bays and private side rooms. Its interior features a seasonal theme, incorporating photographs and artwork of local landscapes to create a calming, familiar atmosphere. The project placed a strong emphasis on dementia-friendly design. Customisable wall panels and colour schemes help with wayfinding and orientation – key considerations for patients who may struggle with memory or spatial awareness. Focus groups helped shape the layout and aesthetics of the space, with biophilic design principles used to create a connection to nature. A number of surfaces in the ward were fitted using products from Altro, a manufacturer with a long-standing relationship with the hospital. Flooring in clinical areas includes Altro Illustra and Altro Suprema, which offer slip resistance and are easy to clean. In wet areas such as showers and bathrooms, Altro Pisces was used to reduce the risk of falls, while Altro Whiterock hygienic wall cladding was installed to meet infection control standards. Lesley Self, the hospital’s ArtCare projects officer, said: ‘We wanted to create a space that feels safe, calming and welcoming, but is also practical for staff. The materials needed to be durable and hygienic, but also contribute to the overall look and feel of the environment.’ The addition of Imber Ward is expected to ease pressure on existing surgical wards by providing dedicated space for post-operative recovery in older patients. The expansion also supports Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust’s elective recovery programme by freeing up capacity for procedures such as day surgery. • New ward at Salisbury Hospital designed with dementia patients in mind 5, 6 News.indd 5 15/04/2025 15:50
6 mhdf magazine NEWS Care homes in the UK now have a new digital option to improve efficiency and care quality with the launch of Epic Care, a cloud-based care management system from healthtech provider Clanwilliam. Already widely used across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, Epic Care is designed to help care homes move away from paper records or outdated IT systems. Its modular and scalable design supports everything from resident care planning and compliance to medication management and staff training. The system arrives in the UK amid renewed calls for technology-led transformation in social care, with Epic Care offering a proven platform to help meet these goals. Its cloud-based setup allows care teams to access and record information anywhere, using touch-screen technology to simplify daily routines. Shane Williamson, business development manager for Epic Care, said: ‘We want to ensure care homes are part of the digital transformation happening across health and social care. Epic Care saves time, improves communication, and reduces the burden on staff so they can focus on residents.’ Christine Thompson, regional manager of Macklin Care Homes in Northern Ireland, has worked with Epic Care for nearly 20 years. ‘It’s all about saving time and improving visibility,’ she said. ‘I can check care plans, fluid intake and more at the touch of a button.’ • A £3 million refurbishment project has begun at Maple Ward, part of the Longley Centre in Sheffield, aimed at transforming the mental health facility into a safer, more supportive environment for patients and staff. The two-storey unit is being fully redesigned to include 17 en-suite bedrooms, an accessible bedroom, calming de-escalation spaces and a newly landscaped garden courtyard. Key safety upgrades include the removal of fixed ligature anchor points throughout the facility. The renovation will also improve or create essential spaces such as a quiet room, dining area, staff rest zone, lounge, clinic room and dispensary. Mechanical and electrical systems will be refurbished, and new drainage and access points are being installed as part of the works. Maple Ward plays a crucial role in the assessment and treatment of individuals with urgent mental health needs. Adele Sabin, head of the Therapeutic Environments Programme, said: ‘We are doing this work to put the comfort and safety of our service users at the forefront, removing ligature anchor points and creating high-quality environments for care.’ The refurbishment, being delivered with support from Henry Boot Construction, is expected to be completed in late autumn this year. • Clanwilliam launches Epic Care System in UK care homes £3m mental health facility refurbishment underway at Sheffield’s Longley Centre 5, 6 News.indd 6 15/04/2025 15:50
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8 mhdf magazine DEMENTIA CARE Norden House: the future of dementia care? Norden House reimagines elderly care by drawing inspiration from the Hogeweyk village model in the Netherlands, championing autonomy and a sense of freedom for residents. We explore the thinking behind this innovative approach In the Netherlands, an innovative approach to dementia care has been transforming lives. Known as Hogeweyk village, this self-contained community is designed to mirror everyday life. Here, 152 residents with advanced dementia live in small, themed households, strolling along streets lined with cafés, shops and even a pub. Every detail, from homey apartments to a working supermarket and gardens, is designed to preserve autonomy and normalcy. Carers are known as homemakers, wear everyday clothes, and focus on companionship and support rather than rigid schedules or clinical routines. The genius of Hogeweyk lies in its person-centred design. By fostering a familiar and engaging environment, the model has been shown to reduce episodes of agitation and confusion, leading to a calmer and more fulfilling daily experience. Residents who previously struggled with disorientation in traditional care homes often regain a sense of purpose through structured social interactions and activities tailored to their past interests. The result of this concept means Hogeweyk has become a model for dementia care worldwide. BRINGING THE MODEL TO THE UK Inspired by Hogeweyk’s success, the Healthcare Management Trust – the registered charity delivering not for profit health and social care across England and Wales – opened Norden House in Littlehampton, West Sussex, in February 2024. Designed to be a ‘home from home,’ the £10 million facility breaks away from traditional dementia care, prioritising dignity, freedom and independence. It accommodates residents in intimate households of up to eight people, grouped by similar care needs based on cognitive abilities, social compatibility and levels of required support. This structure ensures that residents feel comfortable and secure while encouraging meaningful social interactions. By placing individuals with similar experiences together, the approach fosters familiarity, reduces stress and promotes engagement in daily routines. Each household has its own kitchenette, 8, 9, 10 Norden House.indd 8 08/04/2025 15:40
mhdf magazine 9 DEMENTIA CARE open-plan lounge, dining area and en-suite bedrooms – many with private patios. A central ‘high street’ runs through the community, featuring a café, hair salon, cinema, and a garden and allotment area. Manager Andrea Barker describes the philosophy: ‘Norden House has been specifically built to incorporate nursing, residential and dementia care. Each household has its own individual name like Poppy and Bluebell – with separate lounges, kitchenettes and a shared snug. It’s designed to feel like home, where residents can live independently for as long as possible. We are absolutely about supporting people to do what they want and live the life they want, in an environment designed to help them. Much like the Hogeweyk village model, carers here are also known as homemakers, reflecting a philosophy that sees residents as individuals who simply need a bit of support – without the burden of managing a house or flat. The focus is on preserving independence for as long as possible, with care that evolves alongside needs. ‘Our goal is to help them live the life they choose, in the safest and most supportive environment we can provide,’ says Barker. At Norden House, residents have the freedom to choose their daily routines, whether that means sleeping in or having breakfast at noon. They can decide when to participate in activities, enjoy a walk in the gardens or socialise in the communal areas. For those who prefer solitude, quiet spaces are available for reading, listening to music or engaging in hobbies. Staff members encourage residents to follow their own preferences, reinforcing the idea that life at Norden House is centred around personal choice and comfort. Although full cooking facilities are not available, residents can prepare simple meals, make tea or coffee, and contribute to everyday tasks. It’s all designed to foster deep, familylike relationships among residents, carers and visiting relatives. Small households create a sense of belonging, and conflicts, when they arise, are managed with understanding. In addition, staff undergo immersive training – such as sensory deprivation exercises – to better understand the challenges of dementia and respond with empathy. >> 8, 9, 10 Norden House.indd 9 08/04/2025 15:40
10 mhdf magazine DEMENTIA CARE Belong Villages A network of care villages across the UK that incorporate elements of the Hogeweyk model, focusing on small households, community engagement and dementia-friendly environments. The Greenhouse Project (Scotland) A care home concept inspired by the Hogeweyk model that emphasises small households, resident autonomy and normalising daily life for people with dementia. The Hamlets at Dover (Kent) A specialist dementia care community designed with elements from the Hogeweyk village. St. Monica Trust’s Chocolate Quarter (Bristol) While not an exact replica, this care village offers a community-oriented approach similar to Hogeweyk, including familiar social spaces and dementia-friendly design. Camphill Communities (UK-wide) Some of these communities incorporate similar principles, particularly in creating meaningful social connections and maintaining a village-like setting. OTHER CARE VILLAGES BASED ON THE HOGEWEYK MODEL INCLUDE: As Barker notes: ‘The benefit of Norden House is that people live in small family-style households where they build relationships and develop a real community with a community spirit. Yes, our residents have their ups and downs. They have disagreements and the odd spat, but they usually move on from those and experience the benefits of friendship. Our people are not isolated because they’ve had a bad day.’ Since opening, the facility already boasts several success stories, including a group of six nuns who now live together in an apartment, and a poorly resident who was admitted with significant pressure ulcers, who is now healed and doing well. GOING FORWARD With dementia cases in the UK projected to rise from 900,000 to 1.6 million by 2040, and cases in West Sussex expected to reach 22,450 by 2030, innovative care models like Norden House could prove vital. To help address this growing demand, the Healthcare Management Trust has plans to expand its reach by developing additional facilities modelled after its successful village concept, and exploring partnerships with local authorities and dementia care organisations. By investing in research and continuously refining its approach, Norden House aims to set a benchmark for future dementia care facilities that prioritise dignity, autonomy and social connection. Mair Williams, chief operations officer of the Healthcare Management Trust, notes: ‘Norden House is very different from traditional care homes. Research shows that person-centred care improves quality of life, reduces agitation, and lowers depression and aggression levels. With dementia cases rising rapidly, we need care that is fit for the individual, ensuring they enjoy their life and surroundings as much as possible.’ • 8, 9, 10 Norden House.indd 10 08/04/2025 15:40
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KEYNOTES One Year In - Opportunities for the Mental Health Built Environment Under the Labour Government Baroness Berger, Member of the House of Lords and former Shadow Minister for Mental Health Trauma-Informed Design: An Aid to Recovery or Mere Window Dressing? Yvonne Jewkes, Professor of Criminology, University of Bath Design in Mental Health is a unique two-day event curated to provide a forum for discussion, debate and discovery for professionals like you. From architects to clinicians, policy planners to experts by experience, this event is for everyone whose role involves creating or delivering care in environments designed to heal. •Network, share ideas and compare experiences on challenges big and small with attendees from around the world and across functions. •Test out, discuss and compare innovative products and services for the design, build and equiping of therapeutic spaces. •Engage in an extensive programme of presentations and workshops delivered by top experts working at the forefront of their fields. Attendees include: • Academics and Researchers • Architects • Capital Projects Managers • Clinicians • Contractors • Estates & Facilities Managers • Health Planners • Lived Experience Experts • Product Designers • Security Managers • Service Designers • Service Managers Join experts and peers from around the world to share experience, insights and best practice in mental health design 3-4 June 2025 Manchester Central Main Event Sponsor Organised by Image Credit: IKON Bradford ITC MHDF Adverts Oct 24.indd 12 15/04/2025 14:30
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14 mhdf magazine FLOORING Although the pandemic may be a distant memory for most, its impact on how healthcare estates operate remains huge. Covid uncovered the vulnerability of global healthcare systems to infectious disease and highlighted the key role of specifying the right products and materials to manage infection control and keep people safe. Architects, designers and facilities managers are now challenged with ensuring features such as flooring meet the heightened hygiene demands facing the sector. THE HYGIENE CHALLENGE One of the biggest shifts in the postpandemic era is how effective hygiene, wellbeing and disease control is delivered in today’s healthcare estates. Whilst the management of diseases like MRSA, E. coli, Staph infections and superbugs are longstanding, the pandemic brought about new standards of hygiene protocol. The stringent cleaning regimes now required to keep facilities sterile present key challenges for both manufacturers and specifiers alike. It’s pushed specifiers to look for products that will withstand aggressive cleaning and manufacturers to deliver them. And this is exactly what we‘ve done at Interface. It’s commonplace for flooring with shallower top wear layers of 0.2-0.5mm to peel, break or rupture as a result of rigorous cleaning. But flooring options like our high quality vinyl or products in our rubber portfolio, such as noracare™ Seneo, are much more durable, even when treated with abrasive cleaning solutions like peroxide and chlorinated products. Another challenge with lower quality vinyls is that, over time, surface gaps and breakages form when welds and seals can’t withstand shrinkages. This poses another threat as dangerous microorganisms can thrive within these spaces. But this isn’t an issue with rubber flooring. Its natural ability to retain its size, density and shape over time ensures that joints and welds remain tight, and germs are kept at bay. STAFF AND PATIENT EXPERIENCE The benefits of rubber flooring go further than providing a hygienic, sanitary environment. When we think about the experiences of clinical staff, ergonomics is key. With research reporting that the average nurse walks up to 26 miles a week whilst on shift, low-impact and supportive flooring solutions are critical. Ground Reaction Force (GRF) analysis consistently shows that many products from the rubber nora portfolio rank The role of Ralph Leeson, UK manager of Resilient Surfaces at Interface, discusses the evolving role of flooring in meeting increased hygiene standards in response to COVID-19 ‘The stringent cleaning regimes now required to keep facilities sterile present key challenges for both manufacturers and specifiers alike’ rubber 14, 15 Interface Flooring.indd 14 08/04/2025 15:34
mhdf magazine 15 FLOORING considerably lower than linoleum or vinyl counterparts. Based on analysis on an average 98kg individual, the noraplan® Sentica range produces around 31% less pressure, reducing the likelihood of musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders which account for one third of occupational injuries within healthcare. Then there’s the patient experience. Let’s consider noise levels. From a hospital bed being wheeled down a hallway to staff and visitors walking through a space, noise within healthcare environments is inevitable. But levels of ambient noise can hugely influence the experience of end-users, and its reduction is vital to providing an environment suitable for healing, practicing healthcare and researching. Where some typical flooring solutions exacerbate sound, noise generation and reverberation tests consistently rank rubber flooring as the best option to reduce noise and improve acoustics. By reducing noise by up to 20dB, rubber flooring is an excellent option for specifiers and designers who are seeking to improve the user experience. With plenty of colour palettes available for healthcare environments, designers have an opportunity to introduce personality into a given space with rubber flooring. Take for example the refreshed norament® 926 Satura collection from Interface, launched in October 2024, which combines both durability and aesthetics. Incorporating bright yellows and light greens, the range is an excellent example of how facilities can balance durability, functionality and design. What’s more, with rubber, you can introduce inlays which enable wayfinding – especially important for facilities supporting those with dementia. REDUCING IMPACT ON THE PLANET Sustainability increasingly guides specification decisions, and the natural properties of rubber flooring make it an ideal alternative to the common vinyls and PVCs within healthcare environments. Natural rubber in particular is a renewable, organic resource which ensures that it can be easily recycled. This is a key part of closing the loop on waste and initiatives like our own Waste Take-Back programme which sees us collaborate with specifiers to ensure minimal product is wasted. As part of this, and to further contribute to the circular economy, it’s standard for our used flooring to be entered back into the production cycle for future use. For example, our nora acoustic collections contain 29% recycled content, bringing us closer to achieving our vision of a cradle-to-cradle supply chain. SUPPORTING HEALTHCARE FROM THE GROUND UP The challenges facing healthcare in the years to come are difficult to predict. However, when it comes to flooring, rubber is one of the most viable options designers and specifiers can choose to protect their buildings and those who use them. From halting bacteria growth to enhancing the staff and patient experience, rubber flooring is the ideal foundation for providing the very best care. • www.interface.com 14, 15 Interface Flooring.indd 15 08/04/2025 15:34
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mhdf magazine 17 UTILITIES Skirting board heating for healthcare settings Healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, care homes and assisted living centres, face unique challenges when it comes to heating. Ethan Wadsworth, sales and marketing director at DiscreteHeat, explains how the company works in collaboration with the NHS to ensure spaces are warm and comfortable for patients and staff, while maintaining strict hygiene and safety standards Traditional radiators have long been a fixture in healthcare heating systems. However, they present a significant dilemma, particularly in environments where cleanliness and safety are paramount. A 2008 study published in The Journal of Hospital Infection identified radiators as a key challenge in maintaining hygiene in hospitals. Radiators can harbour dust, detritus and bacteria, creating an ideal breeding ground for harmful pathogens like C. difficile and MRSA. This issue is exacerbated by the steel casing often used to cover radiators in healthcare settings to comply with safety regulations, such as those outlined in Health Building Note 00-09. These casings are difficult to remove and clean thoroughly, further complicating infection control efforts. Radiators can also cause physical problems. They occupy wall space, can be trip hazards and often have hard edges that can cause injury in the event of a fall. For vulnerable patients, such as those with dementia or mobility impairments, these risks are particularly pronounced. As healthcare facilities move towards sustainable, low-temperature heating systems like heat pumps, traditional radiators struggle to perform efficiently. To compensate, larger radiators or substantial modifications to existing systems are often required. These options are not only costly but also disruptive. Underfloor heating also carries unique concerns for healthcare environments, as underfloor heating in carpeted areas may cause unpleasant smells or create hygiene issues related to incontinence, particularly in dementia and assisted living homes. And healthcare staff who spend long hours on their feet may experience issues like swollen legs from prolonged exposure to warm floors. Another concern is that underfloor heating generally takes longer to heat up and cool down, making it slower to adjust to the required room temperature, which could lead to discomfort or challenging behaviour, particularly for those in assisted living accommodation. FINDING AN EFFECTIVE HEATING SOLUTION Recognising the limitations of traditional systems, we collaborated with NHS infection control experts to produce an effective heating solution. ThermaSkirt EasyClean combines the radiators and skirting boards in one energy efficient aluminium profile, offering a low-profile, easy-to-clean solution that runs effectively on low temperature heat sources like heat pumps and addresses both hygiene and safety concerns. It has a seamless, closed design >> ‘Recognising the limitations of traditional systems, we collaborated with NHS infection control experts to produce an effective heating solution’ 17, 18 Thermaskirt.indd 17 10/04/2025 15:22
18 mhdf magazine UTILITIES that eliminates grilles, slots and other features where dust and microbes could accumulate. Its hygienic top edge and floor trim ensure that the system can be cleaned easily and thoroughly during routine floor mopping. By minimising air movement, ThermaSkirt reduces the spread of airborne pathogens, supporting infection control efforts in high-risk settings. The system has an anti-tamper top capping, making it safe for use in environments where patients may be at risk of self-harm. With no exposed pipes, valves or fixings, it offers a naturally antiligature solution, enhancing safety without sacrificing functionality or aesthetics. ThermaSkirt is compatible with existing heating systems, and also renewable energy sources like heat pumps and solar thermal systems, supporting sustainability goals. Its low water volume ensures a quick response time, making it highly efficient. Unlike underfloor heating, which can take hours to adjust to the set temperature, ThermaSkirt offers better and quicker control over room conditions. The even heat distribution creates a comfortable environment, improving both patient and staff wellbeing. RETROFITTING THERMASKIRT The system is installed above the floor and can be connected to existing pipework without extensive disruption, making it feasible to retrofit in existing facilities. This also minimises the costs associated with traditional heating upgrades. Maintenance is straightforward, as the system’s components are easily accessible. ThermaSkirt EasyClean offers a practical, hygienic and sustainable alternative to traditional heating systems in healthcare settings. Designed with input from NHS infection control specialists, it addresses the unique challenges posed by radiators and underfloor heating, making it the ideal choice for modern healthcare facilities. As healthcare facilities strive to meet their sustainability targets, adopting innovative technologies will be critical for creating safer, cleaner and more energy-efficient environments. Whether retrofitting existing spaces or planning new facilities, skirting board heating is a forward-thinking solution that meets the highest standards of care and sustainability. • The Iris Murdoch Dementia Services Development Centre (DSDC) at Stirling University is a leader in dementia care and research. When the centre decided to upgrade its Virtual Care Home display rooms, the team faced a challenge – finding a heating solution that met stringent hygiene, safety and comfort requirements while also being sustainable. BPA Architecture, tasked with the redesign, sought a heating solution that addressed hygiene, safety and comfort while integrating seamlessly into a modern care environment. Traditional radiators were deemed unsuitable due to their bulky design, hygiene risks and inefficiency with low-temperature systems. Underfloor heating posed its own challenges, including slow response times and discomfort for staff. Overhead radiant panels were dismissed due to uneven heat distribution and aesthetic concerns. THE SOLUTION After learning about ThermaSkirt EasyClean at a healthcare estates exhibition, the centre chose to install the system. It was simply installed onto the existing hydronic heating system, replacing a bulky and potentially hazardous radiator under the window. By circulating the heat evenly around the room at low level, it provides comfort that rivals underfloor heating, but with a response time (on and off) measured in minutes, not hours. As it is at ground level, installation and maintenance was considerably simplified. The results were impressive. Because it is a fully sealed system, it is easily cleaned and disinfected during general cleaning of floors, addressing concerns about infection control. Being a skirting board profile, it is naturally anti-ligature, and can also provide a more familiar ‘domestic feel’ for those suffering with early Alzheimer’s. Being a low surface temperature emitter, it can also reduce running costs by allowing the heat source to operate at maximum efficiency. Chris McAdam, business manager at the DSDC, said: ‘Hygiene and safety are necessary considerations, and the radiant skirting solution seems to answer all these issues. Patient comfort is an important part of the care and service clients can expect to receive in a well-designed and run facility.’ Case Study: The Iris Murdoch Dementia Services Development Centre 17, 18 Thermaskirt.indd 18 10/04/2025 15:22
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