Belper care homes provider wins national dementia design award at UK Dementia Awards 2026
The award highlights Milford Care’s innovative approach to environmental design, which focuses on crafting spaces that are both functional and comforting. The designs are tailored to meet the needs of residents, with every space carefully considered to support the unique lifestyle and requirements of people living with dementia. By ensuring that these spaces feel homely, accessible, and purposeful, Milford Care enables residents to engage in meaningful daily activities and maintain their independence
Amanda Falleth and Kara Gratton in the middle with with Alexander Dragonetti from the TV series The Traitors on the right
The Environmental Design in Dementia Award recognises the dedication of Milford Care’s Environmental Design Team, including Interior Co-ordinator Amanda Falleth and Care & Development Manager Kara Gratton. Their efforts have been instrumental in creating a setting that enhances residents’ quality of life by supporting their dignity, independence, and emotional wellbeing.
The win marks a double celebration for the group, with Milford House in Milford also named a finalist in the Promoting Health and Wellbeing in Dementia Award category at the same awards. The recognition highlights the commitment of the Milford House team in creating an environment where residents living with dementia are supported to lead active, meaningful and fulfilling lives.
The UK Dementia Awards judges said: “The application of the Montessori approach and ethos to the environment, inside and out, at Milford has created a flexible, authentic, person-centred home-from-home.
“Creating a meaningful place for their residents, where they can contribute to the care home, drives the design of the environment. It is a transformation from passive sitting to purposeful living.
“Milford Care has created a resident-driven environment that promotes intergenerational connections and helps people to be as independent as possible. Residents are supported to continue doing the ordinary things in life, from gardening and cooking, to reading to visiting children, playing games with family visitors and bird watching.
“Amanda and Kara’s commitment to their approach was impressive and they were so full of examples of the outcomes of the environment on the wellbeing of their residents that we couldn’t help but be blown away.”
Pierre Falleth, Director of Milford Care, expressed pride in the achievement: “We are incredibly proud to have won the Environmental Design in Dementia Award. It’s a testament to the hard work and commitment of all our teams, who design and create environments that truly enhance the lives of people living with dementia. Our team is dedicated to providing an environment where residents feel valued and empowered.”
Nicole Thompson, Manager of Milford House, said: “We are honoured to be named a finalist for this award. It’s a reflection of the dedication our team brings to creating a vibrant, engaging environment where our residents can thrive. We believe that our Montessori-inspired philosophy plays a huge part in promoting autonomy, dignity and a sense of community for each resident.”
For more information about Milford House and Milford Care’s service, please visit www.milfordcare.co.uk/milford-house.
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