In recent weeks, Livability Holton Lee has received a major boost by securing a grant from Viridor Credits Environmental Company, through the Landfill Communities Fund. This award will support disabled people enjoy full accessibility, whatever their mobility, 365 days a year through the reparation and development of the Heathland tracks around the wellbeing centre.
The tracks will enable people using off-road mobility scooters with limited mobility to access the natural landscape – whilst controlling the disturbance to nature directing people along clear path lines. It will also benefit able-bodied users and the general public who visit our facilities.
Gareth Williams, Funded Projects Manager at Viridor Credits, said:
‘The aims of Livability align perfectly with the aims of the Community object of the Landfill Communities Fund. The Viridor Credits Board had no hesitation in making an offer of funding to this remarkable facility.’
This is a major boost for Livability and will also benefit other projects operating from the centre, including the East Holton Driving Centre (EHDC), which has their home on the estate.
The EHDC run more than 1,000 horse drawn carriage drives on the site per year for disabled people from around the country allowing access to experience the natural environment. The tracks need repairing in order to keep them useable for the service as they depend on track stability.
Maureen Lally from the EDHC was overjoyed saying:
‘The track reparation and development will make our Clients very happy. They will no longer be restricted to short drives due to some of the tracks being unusable for them. Their drives will be enjoyable, longer and more beneficial. We are looking forward to driving on the repaired tracks and seeing our clients enjoy their driving experience.’
Livability Holton Lee is part of the national charity – Livability. It is a wellbeing discovery centre set in 350 acres of beautiful Dorset countryside. Visitors are invited to discover opportunities for personal growth through access to engaging activities and connecting with nature. With specific expertise in mental health and wide—ranging disabilities, our work benefits the whole person.”
Livability have recently opened a new spinal injury centre on the site. The building was officially opened by HRH The Princess Royal in January – and will open as a service later in the year.
The new paths and routes that will be possible from the Viridor Credits Grant will also provide important support for visitors to the spinal injury service to practice wheelchair skills and enjoy benefits of a fresh-air excursion away from traffic/crowds.
Richard Hawkesford, South West Community Fundraiser for Livability, expressed his gratitude for the donation saying:
‘Livability’s Holton Lee site is a unique and special place where people of all abilities enjoy the natural environment. This kind and generous award from Viridor Credits enhances the experience and safeguards the enjoyment of the facility for years to come.’
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