Local learning disability charity, Lifeworks, has acquired a new site at Webbers Yard, Dartington, in the latest chapter of its long-standing relationship with the Dartington Hall Trust. A new long-term lease will allow Lifeworks to create a purpose-built base for its central charity offices, further education and training college.
Lifeworks was set up by Richard Hanlon and a group of parents of children in 1996. They were determined to make a difference to the lives of families with learning disabled children. The Trust, through Kate Caddy, granddaughter of Dorothy and Leonard Elmhirst, was instrumental in welcoming Lifeworks to the Dartington estate where they have gone from strength-to-strength.
The charity now delivers a wide range of programmes and services, including residential and respite care, further education, life skills training, youth clubs and sport and leisure events. Having now outgrown its existing accommodation in a number of Trust buildings, the new building will provide a base for the charity’s central team, work placement, training services and further education. Short-stay and long-term respite care will continue to be delivered at Robins Respite and Life Skills Centre. The new building will be about 1400 m2 over two floors and comprise workshops, classrooms and administrative offices, providing accommodation for up to 50 students, 30 support staff and 15 office staff, with about 50 car parking spaces.
Richard Hanlon, CEO of Lifeworks Charity, said:
‘I am delighted that the Dartington Hall Trust are making such a sustainable site available so that we can take the important work of Lifeworks Charity to the next level. We’re excited to soon have all our activities in one place for the first time and we can’t wait to move in.’
With a long-lease now signed, Lifeworks can start to fund-raise for what is likely to be a two to four year project leading to the completion of its new premises.
I am looking for respite care for my son who is 23.
Will this venture include a higher age range?
If not, can you suggest anywhere near by?
Much appreciated.