A groundbreaking garden has opened in Abbey Wood to help people with dementia.

The new space in Cedar Court, Lensbury Way, opened on April 3 and aims to improve the quality of life for residents living with the condition.

The garden was created with the help of a Bexley Council grant secured from the Department of Health.

The scheme is part of Bexley’s Dementia Inspirational Gardens project, developed jointly by the council and Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust.

Each of the gardens developed through the £315,000 project has been carefully designed to create a relaxing space which will also provide stimulation in the form of colours, smells and the sound of wildlife.

The funding will also go towards the creation of similar gardens at Adelaide Care Centre in Bexleyheath, Abbotsleigh Mews in Sidcup and Marlborough Court in Thamesmead.

Cabinet member for adults’ social care Councillor Chris Taylor attended the opening and said: "I am confident these wonderful gardens will support families living with dementia by providing gentle physical and mental activity and encouraging them to be independent.

"Each of the homes taking part in the project has made a commitment to ensure the special areas are put to good use and well maintained.

"We hope they will make the lives of people dealing with the challenge of dementia easier."