A DEMENTIA care home charity has appointed its first 'admiral nurse' to help people moving into its buildings.

Avante Care and Support, which has 700 residents across Kent, Bexley and Greenwich, has appointed Stephen Mason as its first admiral - a specialist mental health worker with expertise in dementia.

He will work help people improve the quality of life, developing skills to improve communication and maintain relationships.

Established as a result of the experiences of family carers, Admiral Nurses are named after Joseph Levy who had vascular dementia and was known as Admiral Joe because of his keen interest in sailing.

Chief executive Cedric Frederick said: "We have had a desire for some time to increase our support to families during the difficult journey they face."

For details on Avante call 01795 597400 or visit avantepartnership.org.uk