Fulham-based charity Action on Disability has opened a new site for Disabled residents to socialise in Lillie Road.
The newly refurbished space is now home to Our Place, a programme supporting Disabled residents to learn new skills, and to meet new people and local businesses.
David Buxton OBE, chief executive of Action on Disability, said:
We are very grateful to our funders for supporting this exciting project.
It has been fantastic to see local Disabled people creating spaces for them to pursue what is important to them. This new site will facilitate even more opportunities for local Disabled people and brings everyone closer to a much more inclusive society."
The space has a music studio, dance studio, art room, sensory room and a lounge space – picked to create exciting opportunities that Disabled residents can lead on and to ensure the site has long-lasting value to the wider community.
Last year, we helped launch their new Centre for Independent Living which provides Direct Payment Support and guidance on employment and Welfare Benefit Services. This new hub is now the perfect place to relax, have fun and try new things with friends.
Designed by Disabled people
The community hub and new programme have both been designed by local Disabled people.
Their work included peer support groups to discuss what residents would want from the space and taking lead in its design to ensure the building is fully accessible.
"It's fantastic to see Action on Disability expanding the services and support available to Disabled residents in H&F," said Cllr Daryl Brown, H&F's Deputy Mayor, who cut the ribbon at the centre's launch.
"Their centre across the road is home to essential support and guidance services and this new hub is the other side of that coin – the perfect place to relax, have fun and try new things with friends."
The project, and its next three years, has been funded by The National Lottery Community Fund and Propel London managed by the City Bridge Foundation.
