GWYNEDD Council recently unveiled its new specialist unit developed for people living with dementia at Plas Hedd, Bangor.

The unit, called ‘Uned Aber’ will ensure suitable provision for people living with dementia in the area and secure specialist care as close as possible to their families.

Councillor Dafydd Meurig, Gwynedd Council's Cabinet Member for Care, said: "It was great to see this specialist unit opening at Plas Hedd.

"This investment is part of our vision of working with health partners to provide specialist care services for people with conditions such as dementia within their communities, and as close as possible to family and friends.

"In the past, people have often had to leave their area to be cared for, but I am pleased that we are able to respond to the desire for dementia care more locally, and that the Bangor area will benefit.

"This development at Uned Aber is one of several units in Gwynedd with a similar unit also being developed at Plas Hafan in Nefyn along with extending the dementia provision at Bryn Blodau in Llan Ffestiniog and Llys Cadfan in Tywyn."

The upgrade at Plas Hedd has cost £120,000 and part of the home has been adapted to provide specialist support for up to 7 people with dementia, including a 'respite room' meaning that users can come in for up to two weeks so that their families can take a break.

Carys Owen, who manages Plas Hedd on behalf of Gwynedd Council, said: "We are delighted to see this unit open and that local people living with dementia and their families will benefit from the scheme.

"It is very important that residents stay closer to family and friends and maintain that important contact for as long as possible."

Gwynedd Council is working with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board on this project, with funding from the Welsh Government's Integrated Care Fund used as part of the upgrade.