A new centre providing "round-the-clock" support to those with autism, learning disabilities and complex needs is set to open in Colchester next month.

Chestnut Court will be part of Cygnet Hospital Colchester, in Boxted Road, Mile End, and will establish a highly specialised autism service for men, encompassing five beds.

Each flat within Chestnut Court will be specially designed to offer a secure environment catering to those who display distress behaviours or have certain sensory requirements.

The spaces will be personalised according to the preferences, abilities and strengths of each user.

Situated a brief drive from Colchester's centre, residents of Chestnut Court will enjoy access to a broad range of community amenities.

Clinical manager, Kudzanai Chikodzi, said: "Chestnut Court will provide round-the-clock support to the individuals in our care.

"The team will work closely together with those we support to ensure that their voices are heard in order to make a positive difference, improve lives and support independent living."

The 59-bed hospital also houses an acute mental ward and high support inpatient rehabilitation among its four additional wards.

As part of an extensive expansion plan, Cygnet is set to open five new state-of-the-art hospitals in 2024, alongside complete modernisation of its existing facilities.

By 2025, the company will have in excess of 200 services across the UK.

Cygnet CEO, Dr Tony Romero, said: “Our purpose is to make a positive difference to the lives of the individuals we care for, their loved ones and all those who work with us.

“We are proud of our reputation for delivering pioneering services and outstanding outcomes for the individuals in our care and I am delighted to see us extend our care offer in Colchester.

“It is our priority to ensure those suffering get the very best support they need and we are delighted that we will soon be able to support more people who need our help.

“We are a proud partner to the NHS we want to be part of the solution and work together with the NHS to provide the best treatment and facilities to help people on their recovery journey.”