PENARTH
Ty Hapus offers support to families

Alzheimers disease is gruelling and terrifying and it takes a terrible toll on the carers, as Justine Pickering knows only too well. Her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimers at 55. It was why she, along with help, is setting up Ty Hapus, which will offer support to families dealing with dementia.

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"Alzheimers is not a natural part of the ageing process, but a severe and debilitating brain disease like many others," said Justine. "Ty Hapus will be a model for the rest of the UK, and will show how to look after younger people with Alzheimers Disease in an elegant and age appropriate manner."

The team at Leekes of Llantrisant, and Hamptons in Penarth have helped design Ty Hapus. The front part of the building offers daily respite to those with Alzheimers and, just as importantly, to the loved ones who look after them at home. The rear of Ty Hapus will house a drop in cafe, on a New England theme designed by Andy at Hamptons, and will offer support to families dealing with dementia.

We've had a state-of-the-art coffee machine donated, so it's lovely that everything is top notch and that the carers can really relax and enjoy some time out while their loved ones are cared for next door.

There is also a therapy and counselling room, a cosy hair salon, and offices for the support workers and manager. The front of Ty Hapus houses a drawing room, dining and activity room and its own gorgeous little kitchen. The main respite area has been entirely designed by Leekes with an elegant country house hotel feel by Dawn and Sian at Leekes, and it will look amazing. Leekes have been unbelievably generous through the whole project."

Our trustees include Emma Leeke, Esther Hitchcock, Professor Julie Williams and writer and broadcaster Carolyn Hitt, and the patrons are Graham Henry, AA Gill - he's a marvellous supporter - Fiona Phillips, Diane Englehardt , the wife of Admiral CEO Henry and Sophie Evans."

Ty Hapus 163 Holton Road, Penarth For more information contact Ellin Jones on 07988769608