Since 2004 the centre has been supporting those with Multiple Sclerosis to lead more positive, enriched lives by providing complimentary therapies', Oxygen treatment, support and wellbeing services. Our ethos is that we cannot add days to life but we can add life to days.
The relocation is much needed as the number of beneficiaries accessing our therapies has grown and the current facility no longer fits our needs. Our current building is based on an industrial estate, that is not so easily accessible with limited parking space or links to public transport.
We offer people the space they need to feel secure, respected, heard and valued. We strive to inspire each person we meet to nurture their body , mind and spirit and to realise their full potential in all that they do.
We have consulted with our trustees, beneficiaries, volunteers,professionals and staff as we made plans for our own building which we secured in 2019.
The new Centre redevelopment is a major project. Set over three floors the primary objective is to ensure that it is fully accessible to all of our current and future members. It is also important that it caters for the community for the foreseeable future to adapt to changing demands. Once completed, the additional space will allow us to expand the number of activities that we can provide to greater numbers in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner. The overall footprint increase is 77%. However, more than the availability of space is the possibility to configure it in a way that will benefit our members and provide a safe space for them.
One of the key additional benefits of this building is the availability of secure parking within a fenced area. This will enable those with mobility problems to park close to the facility and to be safe in the knowledge that they have the time to get in and out of their vehicle without making other drivers wait or having to suffer their impatience. It also provides for those inside the building to offer assistance should it be required. If emergency vehicles are called out they will be able to access the building with ease and transfer of patients will be safe and dignified, off street in a private area. On a brighter note it will also allow us to expand outdoors, weather permitting.
The location of the new Centre was a key contributor to our purchase of the building. It is central to a shopping area and is therefore well served by public transport. It is also easily accessible by road and easily found being close to the M60, A57 and M602 roadways. Locally we have a key geographic indicator in being close to the Fire Station. For our current beneficiaries, using taxis and community transport, it will also generally involve shorter journeys.
The new Centre will add to our sustainability by allowing other groups to use space when it is not being used by our beneficiaries. We will also use the opportunity to engage with prospective volunteers and donors in support of our work going forward. The space lends itself to more involvement with medical professionals who will be able to experience first-hand the support that we offer to people with MS in the region.