A CARE centre specifically for ethnic minority groups is filling a much-needed gap in the community, says its founder.

Middlesbrough’s purpose-built Aapna House was officially opened by the Lord Lieutenant of North Yorkshire, Barry Dodd, in a ceremony on Friday.

The centre offers day and respite services for BME (black and minority ethnic) clients, a population whose needs are not always met in traditional care settings, according to Anita Puri.

The former social worker was inspired to set up Aapna Services in 2010 after noticing language and cultural barriers were preventing people from receiving the care they need.

The charity has grown to offer services including community outreach and day care facilities for those with learning difficulties, dementia and the elderly. Aapna House will continue that work and will also offer respite accommodation, a sensory room, and space for community events.

Ms Puri said: “I realised that there was a need for people to have somewhere to go where they feel safe and at home.

“We want to fill gaps in services – some members of the BME community face language and cultural barriers and that can mean people become isolated. We have quite a mix of people from all different backgrounds coming but there’s a rule to say they can’t talk about politics or religion. They are able to speak to our members of staff in their own language and that helps, especially for those with dementia – we want them to feel at home here.

“We also understand there can be a stigma within certain communities over not wanting to hand over the care of loved ones or ask for help and we help people to come to terms with that.”

Ms Puri has invited those living nearby to visit the facility and find out more, saying she hopes the Eastbourne Road centre will play an important part in the local area and will improve lives.