In a heartwarming tale of community collaboration and creativity, an old pharmacy portable cabin, kindly donated to Crest by Asda, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Becoming a brand-new workshop for individuals with additional learning needs, supported by Crest’s Supported Ability Placement (SAP) department.
Following what an individual involved in the project described as a “labour of love”, the once dingy porta cabin now shines with new life. Generous donations allowed for the installation of large windows along the walls, letting sunlight flood the interior and creating a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The workshop was designed to be versatile and to accommodate a wide range of projects. The installation of sturdy worktops around the cabin allows service users to work comfortably on woodworking projects, while also providing ample space for others to spread out for arts and crafts.
After months of planning and works inside the cabin it was finally complete and opened by the Mayor of Conwy, Cllr Evie Roberts, on Thursday 27th of July, marking the opening of this latest expansion of capacity and capabilities of Crest’s SAP department.
Mr Rod Williams, Managing Director of Crest, said:
“Since SAP relocated to our Pabo Lane site they really have made the place their home and have transformed this building into a welcoming, friendly and bespoke centre designed to provide opportunities to those with additional learning needs.
“People really are at the heart of what we do at Crest, and nothing shows that more than our SAP team where individuals from all backgrounds with varying needs come together to socialise and gain valuable work and life skills. Having already installed a poly tunnel and gardens for planting along with a karaoke / disco equipment, the opening of this bespoke work and craft space is the latest addition to the opportunities and capabilities that we can offer to the individuals that use this service.
“When good news can sometimes feel scarce, the transformation of this cabin highlights the power of community and the positive impact that a group of committed individuals can have on their local area. This new workshop stands as a testament to the remarkable potential of turning neglected spaces into sources of joy."
“I wanted to thank the SAP team and the volunteers who have supported us in these works and in getting this workspace completed to such a high standard! In particular I would like to thank Mr Ged King for his time, expertise and support throughout this project. Additionally, a massive thank you to Vaughan Williams at Conwy Valley Windows who supplied and installed two windows in the cabin. Also, a thank you to John from Welcome Furniture who kindly donated to this project. The support and kindness of all of these individuals is hugely appreciated."
“Finally, I want to thank Cllr Evie Roberts, Mayor of Conwy, for officially opening this facility it is incredibly appreciated that The Mayor took the time to come and meet our team and open this new cabin in recognition of the support we provide to individuals across our community.”
Cllr Evie Roberts, Mayor of Conwy Town Council, commented following her official opening of the cabin:
“I was honoured to be invited to open the brand-new porta cabin at Crest. It was my pleasure to celebrate this next great achievement with you, meet the team and some of the volunteers too. I look forward to coming back to visit once it's in full swing, to see some of the fantastic projects in the making.”