A newly created social space at a specialist care facility in Wibsey, Bradford, has been officially unveiled in a memorial event dedicated to a much-loved maintenance worker who was instrumental in bringing the project to life.
Memorial Launch at Cygnet Adarna House
The hub at Cygnet Adarna House on Beacon Road was opened in memory of Malcolm Gray, a maintenance colleague who passed away earlier this year. The service provides rehabilitation for up to nine men living with mental illness and autism spectrum disorder, helping them to develop the skills needed for independent living.
The event celebrated both the new facility and Malcolm's contribution, with staff, service users, and colleagues coming together to honour his memory.
Co-Designed with Service Users
The space was co-produced with residents under the guidance of specialist occupational therapist Ella-Louise Taylor, ensuring it met their specific needs and ideas. Residents played a key role in designing the welcoming venue, which now features gaming facilities, exercise equipment, a sensory area, and a cosy cinema space for shared relaxation.
One service user commented: "It's amazing, it feels really homely and comfortable."
Part of an Award-Winning Programme
The hub forms part of an award-winning national initiative that transforms underused clinical areas into non-clinical, homely environments to support recovery. The programme has been recognised for its positive impact on patient wellbeing and rehabilitation outcomes.
Therapist Highlights the Importance of Co-Production
Ella-Louise Taylor, specialist occupational therapist, said: "From the very beginning, it was important that this was a space designed by the people who use it. We spent time talking with our service users about what they wanted and what would help them feel comfortable, relaxed and connected with others, and every part of the Social Hub reflects those conversations."
She continued: "Seeing everyone enjoying the space together has been incredibly rewarding. Whether it's gaming, exercising, watching a film or simply spending time with one another, the hub is already helping to bring people together."
Malcolm's Legacy Remembered
Taylor added: "Opening it in Malcolm's memory made the day even more meaningful. He played such an important role in making this project a reality, and it felt only right to celebrate everything he contributed."
She also explained the design choices: "The service users chose everything themselves, so there wasn't too much visual stimulus. We also added low lighting, coloured lights and speakers so there is an option to increase the visual and auditory input for those who need more to stay regulated." She concluded: "Having a bigger space for movement will also support sensory-based regulation strategies."
Hospital Manager Praises Community Impact
Matthew Ledger, hospital manager, said: "The Social Hub represents everything we want recovery at Adarna House to be about, which is providing opportunities for people to build confidence, develop relationships and enjoy meaningful activities in a welcoming environment. Spaces like this help create a real sense of community and belonging, giving the people we support somewhere they can truly relax, connect with others and feel at home."
He added: "It was especially important to dedicate the space to Malcolm. He was a valued and much-loved member of our team whose dedication, kindness and hard work touched so many people. His efforts helped make this hub possible, and it will stand as a lasting reminder of the difference he made to our service users and colleagues. We know it is a place he would have been incredibly proud of."
A Place for Connection and Recovery
The hub is already in use, with residents socialising and engaging in various activities. The facility is designed to be a homely environment that encourages interaction, relaxation, and personal growth, aligning with the rehabilitation goals of the service.
By involving service users in every step of the design process, the team at Cygnet Adarna House has created a space that truly reflects the needs and preferences of those who use it, fostering a sense of ownership and belonging.
