Interactive sessions reaffirm commitment to co-produced exemplar facility
CO-PRODUCTION remains at the heart of one of Scotland’s leading disability charities multi-million-pound purpose-built project as it launches a fresh set of workshops with service users, family, stakeholders and staff.
Scheduled across the summer, Capability Scotland is hosting a series of workshops in conjunction with Architecture and Design Scotland (A&DS) to demonstrate the progress that has been made to date on the charity’s upcoming exemplar care building at Bertha Park in Perth.
The workshops will focus on the community’s feedback and demonstrate how their contributions from an initial consultation last year have so far shaped the design of the project – which has been named Our Inclusive Community Project (OICP).
Capability Scotland’s Chief Executive Brian Logan said: “Our commitment to co-design ensures that the voices of the people we support are at the heart of the new facility. These workshops are vital for us to show that we are delivering on our promises and creating a truly inclusive environment.”
The first workshop took place on June 26, focussing on residential services, while the second session which will take place in the Autumn will address the community hub and day service aspect of the project.
Steve Malone, Principal Architect at A&DS, added: “It’s been an incredible journey supporting Capability Scotland. Seeing how the community’s feedback has been integrated into the design is a testament to the project’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.”
The sessions will involve hands-on group work, feedback sessions, and the use of visual aids to explore and refine the design concepts.
During these workshops, participants will discuss key aspects such as site layout, arrival experience, living spaces, and shared outdoor areas, ensuring every detail aligns with the community’s needs and preferences.
Brian emphasised the importance of these sessions: “We are committed to creating a facility that truly reflects the aspirations of the people we support. Their involvement from the start has been crucial, and these sessions are an opportunity to showcase our progress and gather further insights.”
The new facility at Bertha Park – relocating from the Upper Springland campus on Isla Road – will form a national resource, providing benefits far beyond its location and establishing a framework for other communities to learn and adapt from.
With its innovative approach and strong community engagement, the project aims to be a model for future developments, highlighting the importance of inclusive design and co-production in creating spaces that truly serve their intended communities.
Brian Logan added: “This project is a testament to what can be achieved when we place the voices of those we support at the centre of our work. We look forward to continuing this journey with our community and partners.”
Capability Scotland, with over 75 years of experience, is re-imagining care with this pioneering development, showcasing its vision for enabling independence, participation, and potential for disabled people.
The design and development of the Bertha Park facility is part of Capability Scotland’s broader mission to enhance the quality of life for disabled people across Scotland, setting new benchmarks in care and support services.
The Upper Springland campus currently has three registered care homes and offers residential and respite care to 60 adults with physical disabilities and learning disabilities. There is also a day service – as well as a hydrotherapy pool, theatre and walled gardens.
