SPACEcharity, currently located on Pedders Lane, is the largest and most versatile multi sensory environment in the UK. It provides people who have physical, learning and emotional disabilities the chance to build their confidence, help with physical rehabilitation or experience sensations which would prove difficult for them in everyday life.
The centre runs sessions from 10am-9pm every day of the week, but is still struggling with demand for the facilities. Occupational therapist and centre manager Alison Shorrock said: "the target for phase 1 is £850,000 and that will convert the building next door into the shell of a new sensory room with a cafe-social area and two very specialised toilet facilities"
The build is set to begin early next year once funding from large charitable donations have been confirmed and processed.
But it is not just large donations that are appreciated by the centre as Alison explained: "every single pound that comes in here can go towards particular pieces of equipment" adding that "anybody who donates anything can really make a difference."
Local businesses also play a huge roll for the charity in terms of fund raising. The Ribble Pilot pub, the closest to the centre, sponsors SPACE and helps raise funds all year round, but have some special ideas for Christmas. Deputy manager Steven Roach explained: "We're selling Christmas cards for them at the moment, we've got a tree which raises awareness for the SPACE centre and people are always taken aback by it."
Waitress Leah Duffy with the SPACE Centre Christmas tree
