Henshaws Specialist College has launched an urgent £10,000 fundraising appeal after significant water damage was discovered at the College following the weekend.
The damage has affected one of the College’s student bedrooms and surrounding areas, with repairs needed to the ceiling, bathroom tiling, decoration and furniture.
The most significant damage is to the specialist ceiling hoist within the bedroom, which has been affected by water and will need to be replaced.
For the student who uses the room, the hoist is essential. It enables them to safely access their bed and move between their bed and wheelchair with the support they need. Without it, they cannot use their bedroom in the same way or access their bed safely and comfortably.
Specialist equipment such as hoists plays a vital role in supporting students with physical disabilities and complex needs at Henshaws Specialist College, enabling greater independence while maintaining their safety, dignity and comfort.
The water damage has also resulted in ceiling tiles needing to be replaced, the bedroom ceiling being redecorated, bathroom tiling being repaired and damaged furniture, including a wardrobe, chest of drawers and desk, needing to be replaced.
Henshaws is now hoping to raise £10,000 to meet the unexpected cost of replacing the hoist and restoring the bedroom so it can once again provide the safe and accessible environment the student needs.
Stephen Tongue, Charity Director at Henshaws, said:
“This happened very suddenly and our priority is making sure the student affected can safely access their bedroom and the facilities they rely on as quickly as possible.
“The hoist is particularly important. For this student, it is their means of safely accessing their bed. It is not simply a piece of equipment we can manage without while repairs are completed. It is fundamental to their daily life, safety and dignity.
“Alongside replacing the hoist, we also need to repair the damage to the room and replace furniture that has been affected by the water.
“We are asking our community to help us raise £10,000 towards these unexpected costs. Every donation, whatever the amount, will help us restore the room and make sure the student has access to the specialist equipment and environment they need.”
Henshaws Specialist College in Harrogate provides specialist further education for young people aged 16 to 25 with a range of disabilities and additional support needs.
Donations to the £10,000 appeal can be made at https://www.henshaws.org.uk/news/help-henshaws-specialist-college-recover-from-water-damage/
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