A CAFE with a difference has opened in Harwood.

The dementia friendly cafe was launched at Manor Gardens - a housing scheme for the over 55s.

Guests, including residents, council members, staff and families, gathered at the new facility yesterday. They took a trip down memory lane while they enjoy a drink at the vintage café which has been designed to trigger happy memories of times gone by.

Stephen Miller who manages Manor Gardens, said: “We pride ourselves on being able to support our customers to lead independent lives as much as possible through our supported housing and wellbeing services.

“As many of our residents live with dementia, we have created a space specifically designed to meet their needs. Seeing the happiness on residents’ faces after enjoying a cup of tea with their friends and looking at old photographs was the inspiration behind the Memory Lane Café.

"The Café is an extension of the work we are doing throughout the scheme, designed to be future-proof throughout with specialist dementia friendly elements, such as contrasting colours between the walls and floor, dementia friendly signage and memory boxes outside flats. "

Stephen Miller added: “It’s a simple concept but we are really noticing the results. People with dementia often don’t like loud noises, so the café gives them a nice environment to enjoy some quiet time either by themselves, or with friends and family.” In addition to supported accommodation for the 42 people it houses each year, Manor Gardens also offers vital support to people in the area through a weekly activity programme which is open to all.