Work is continuing at pace on a fantastic new community facility in East Leeds. Inspired by the overwhelming need for new premises, local independent charity Leeds Mencap have secured all but £250,000 of the £2.6 million required to build the new centre, which will provide so much more than a home for their valuable services.
Located on Vinery Terrace in the East End Park area, a brand new community nursery and a range of rooms for hire will sit alongside the services for children and adults with learning disabilities.
Due to open its doors in spring, it will benefit a huge number of local residents with 2000 expected to use the centre every year. It will be a place where people can come together to learn, work and socialise, with a number of community groups, such as Richmond Hill Elderly Action, already signed up to use the space.
Constructed off-site, the 48 ‘modules’ were delivered in early January, with the next phase of construction now in full swing.
As we have previously reported, once complete, the centre will enable Leeds Mencap to expand their services over time. From a specialist centre which supports families with very young children with additional needs to sibling support groups, a social club for young adults with learning disabilities and much, much more, many of the services are oversubscribed. More space and improved facilities offer the charity the opportunity to fulfil their ambitions and support more families in desperate need.
With all local childcare places full, a mainstream community nursery was a natural addition to the centre. Jimbo’s Community Nursery will provide childcare for up to 60 2,3 and 4 year olds. It will also offer after school provision and holiday clubs. To register for a place, or for more information, please contact Childcare Manager Abigail Cunningham on abigail.cunningham@leedsmencap.org.uk or call 01132 351331.
To ensure that this wonderful project gets off to the best possible start, Leeds Mencap are still working hard to raise the remaining funds for equipment, furniture and crucial outdoor areas. If you can help, take a look at the space for me campaign or contact Sarah Hooker on 01132 351331.
