A HUB to support people living with advanced dementia is set to open at a day care centre in the Dengie.

Knightswood Day Care Centre in Asheldham, Southminster, is launching its new support centre for its Me, Myself and I group.

A spokesman for Knightswood said: "We have seen a dramatic increase for the need of day care services for those with advanced dementia, who need almost one-to-one care.

"We have already been running a group on a Monday called Me, Myself and I for nearly a year.

"The client base is kept small - up to six a day compared to our main day centre where we have up to 20 - to maintain a calm setting for those who can often feel very anxious.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Inside Knightswood's new support centre for those with advanced dementiaInside Knightswood's new support centre for those with advanced dementia

"This small group focuses on our client’s high level needs to ensure they are mentally and physically stimulated in a safe and compassionate environment."

Staff quickly found the demand for this group exceeded what it could accommodate.

Therefore, with funding and hard work, Knightswood is opening a dedicated support centre for those living with advanced dementia.

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The support will run three days a week to begin with, set to be increased to five days a week.

Each session costs £60 which includes refreshments and a light lunch.

Knightswood will also provide transport to collect residents and return them home.

The Me, Myself & I support centre will be opened on April 12.

Maldon and Burnham Standard: Inside Knightswood's new support centre for those with advanced dementiaInside Knightswood's new support centre for those with advanced dementia

However, this will not be an open day, so the centre can manage numbers.

The spokesman added: "This is a unique service to the Dengie area, with nothing else like it around.

"Not only does Me, Myself & I give the clients themselves a stimulating day but just as importantly, a day with us gives their families and carers some vital respite.

"Whether that’s the husband that cares for his wife or the daughter caring for her dad, it provides them with time to have some crucial breathing space to get on or do something for themselves knowing that their loved one is well looked after for the day."

For more information visit knightswoodcare.co.uk.