The Sara Lee Trust’s Therapy Centre in Sidleywas purpose-designed by local architects Pump House Designson a no-fee basis. Built in 2017, it has proven to be a great asset for the town, providing a place for local people affected by a life threatening illness to receive help and support.
Over the last 4 years, The Trust has treated more people within The Therapy Centre’s calming spaces than at any of its other hubs, and demand continues to rise – especially for group activities like gentle yoga or mindfulness classes. It is clear that the Centre needs to grow to be able to provide the help locals need.
In 2019, The Trust purchased a plot of land next to The Therapy Centre, and obtained planning permission to build a hall space adjoining the building. Pump House Designs kindly agreed to draw up the plans for this new space – once again on a no-fee basis.
Amanda Young, The Sara Lee Trust’s Services Manager, says, “The support of this brilliant local firm of architects has been invaluable in ensuring that the charity’s limited funds are focussed where they are needed most – on providing the free care that is so valued by local people.”
Andrew Gerken of Pump House Designs says, “We are really proud that our design work is helping to make a difference for people in Sidley by providing this calm and nurturing space for their care, and we are looking forward to seeing the next stage come to life over the next year or so.”
Although plans have been delayed due to the pandemic, The Trust plans to go ahead with the new build in 2021-22, pending funding decisions being made this summer.
