Good design is critical, but is it enough

There has been a growing body of evidence over the last few decades recognising the importance of good design in the delivery of outstanding care. Good design is not a luxury – it is a matter of Rights

The Equality Act 2010 requires service providers to make reasonable adjustments to ensure their service is equitable and accessible to all their customers. Adjustments for physical disability may be less than subtle, such as ramps or lift access to compensate for stairs, but what of those who live with a less visible disability? Without inclusive design, people living with dementia risk physical and social isolation and even distress due to their being in a space that no longer makes sense. The impact of such can be upsetting or frustrating at the very least and devastating at worst. Good design matters.

At Porthaven, we recognise that the care environment, both physical and social, is critical to enabling our residents to live well. We are proud to have won two prestigious Pinders Healthcare Design awards – in 2020 at Falkland Grange for The Best Specialist Dementia Design and in 2022 at Upton Mill for The Best Interior Design