New community hub for people with learning disabilities opens

A local community centre has been transformed into a new base for people with learning disabilities.

More than £150,000 has been invested in revamping the Cross Gates Community Centre, turning it into a modern space for up to 20 adults with learning disabilities to use.

The extensive work has included the creation of a new activity room, new disabled toilet and shower room, complete refurbishment of existing toilets, a new kitchen, new suspended ceilings, lighting and new vinyl flooring.

The building’s sports hall will also be redecorated over the next few months.

Before the work, the Cross Gates Community Centre was under used and in a poor state of repair and the improvements were developed through consultation with current users including Youth Services and the over 60’s club.

They will continue to use the centre alongside the Aspire learning disability service, who will be the centre’s anchor tenants.

Councillor Lisa Mulherin, Leeds City Council’s executive member for health, wellbeing and adults, said:

“It was fantastic to see first-hand what a massive difference this work has made and how much the centre has been transformed.

“This project has seen the Cross Gates Community Centre become an open, light and inclusive hub that people of all ages and abilities living in the area can enjoy together and we’ve taken another huge step on what has been an exciting journey to bring our city’s learning disability services up to date and to secure them for the future.

“The new Fulfilling Lives bases are not only modern, accessible and fit for purpose but they also enable those using the service to play an active part in where they live in a place that’s at the heart of their community.”

The work at Cross Gates forms part of the final stage of the eight year Learning Disability Day Service modernisation project, which will see new bases replace the old Ramshead Wood day centre site in Seacroft.

The project has also delivered 22 new community bases and 20 Changing Place toilet facilities across the city.

ENDS

Stuart Robinson

Communications Officer

Leeds City Council

Tel: 0113 224 3937

Email: stuart.robinson@leeds.gov.uk

www.leeds.gov.uk