Kenwith Castle care home has unveiled a new sensory garden designed specifically to cater for the needs of people living with dementia.

Making the most of the home’s setting in 30 acres of parkland, the new sensory garden has been designed by local garden designer, Angie Ward, and was built by Torrington-based LJ Developments (Southwest).

Wide, flat walkways wind through the landscape, past paved seating areas and garden benches, with scented and shrub borders and trees providing colour as well as aroma.

There is a mix of sensory areas with mood-boosting colours and quiet spaces for moments of calm and reflection.

We all know the benefits of being outside in nature and being able to move around and this is equally important for people living with dementia, helping to reduce tension and anxiety

And raised borders allow easy accessibility for wheelchair users, ensuring they can get involved in gardening activities with ease.

There is also a gazebo and water features to calm and soothe the senses, as well as a potting shed and horticultural therapy area.

In addition, a bug hotel will be a welcome home for different species of minibeast and insects such as ladybirds, bees, spiders, and woodlice.

Amanda Williams, manager at the home, which is operated by Care South, said: “The dementia sensory garden is one of the best things we have ever introduced at Kenwith Castle.

“Residents in our care have been excitedly tracking its progress, from design to build, and were thrilled to finally have the chance to get out there and explore all it has to offer.”

Colour, touch and scent all help to calm and ground residents, as well as helping to awaken distant memories of happy times

She added: “For people living with dementia, it is so important to create safe, calming spaces.

“The garden is easy to navigate, safe, and secure, and has clear pathways to reduce the risk of confusion and disorientation.

“We all know the benefits of being outside in nature and being able to move around and this is equally important for people living with dementia, helping to reduce tension and anxiety.

“Colour, touch and scent all help to calm and ground residents, as well as helping to awaken distant memories of happy times.

“This purpose-built garden will be an invaluable addition to our home, allowing residents to stroll freely and safely.”

A family member of a resident added: “What a difference this has already made to my mum’s quality of life.

“She has always been a keen gardener and this will enhance the excellent standard of care she receives here.”