Heathlands Day Centre, in Dagenham, was recently given a new lease of life as council partners and the local community worked together to revamp the gardens and provide greater wheelchair access. 

A vital resource for adults with complex and severe disabilities, Heathlands Day Centre provides a lifeline to its users and their families. 

With over 50 regular users, the centre offers a range of activities and services which enhance users’ well-being while giving their carers much needed respite. To improve the site, a plan was put in place to increase the accessibility in the outdoor areas, while also installing new seating, painting an interactive music bridge and laying down new turf. 

Housebuilders L&Q and Jerram Falkus generously provided paint, paving stones and shingle to the project. Help in the construction of the new pathways and seating was also provided by Hill Group, Careys Ltd., and Vistry Group. 

Local residents also played a crucial role in the project. Volunteers from the community came together to lay garden weed membrane and bark, clear the gardens, and make space for future projects. 

The companies took part in the project as part of their social value commitment. This policy has allowed the council to join up businesses and community groups to help fund various projects.

Cllr Sade Bright, Cabinet Member for Employment Skills and Aspiration, said: “The Heathlands Day Centre is such an important part of our community, and I want to thank everyone involved in this project to improve not just the space, but the lives of its users. 

“What’s so wonderful about initiatives like this is that it shows how we’re able to bring the community and our partners together to achieve a greater good.” 

Carol Hackett, Manager at Heathlands Day Centre, said: “We are incredibly grateful for the support from Contractors Hill Group, Careys Ltd, Vistry, Jerram Falkus, and our local community. 

“The new wheelchair-accessible gardens will provide a wonderful space for our service users to enjoy nature and engage in outdoor activities. This project has truly made a difference in their lives.” 

For more information about Heathlands Day Centre and how you can help out, please contact carol.hackett@lbbd.gov.uk.