Haven Centre for young people with complex needs in Highlands will make 'huge' difference, says MSP
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The dedication behind a project to develop Scotland’s first multiple-purpose centre for children and young people with learning disabilities and complex needs has been praised by a Scottish Government minister.
Highlands and Islands MSP Emma Roddick, who is also minister for equalities, migration and refugees, visited the Haven Centre development in Inverness which is nearing completion.
The £4.1 million centre, which is set to open later this year, will include an indoor specialist play centre with child care facilities, a community café, meeting spaces, and an outdoor garden.
The project, led by the Elsie Normington Foundation, also includes three badly-needed respite flats for young adults up to the age of 30.
Watch: Progress on pioneering centre
Ms Roddick was delighted to get the chance to visit the site.
“It is really coming together, and I know that many across the Highlands will be eagerly anticipating its completion,” she said.
Ms Roddick, who was joined by foundation chairwoman Elsie Normington and community fundraiser Rona Matheson, praised the team effort.
“I know how hard they have all worked to bring the Haven Centre to this point and it is a testament to their dedication,” she said.
“The community support for the centre is so clear and I understand they’re already receiving offers of help from potential volunteers in the community café.
“This development will be huge for families with folk with learning disabilities in the Highlands, providing much-needed support, including respite.
“By bringing together multiple services on one integrated site, this project will make the lives of so many across the Highlands a little bit easier and I am very much looking forward to it welcoming its users in the near future.”
