Age UK North Yorkshire and Darlington has given a fresh lease of life to the entrance and outdoor space at Bradbury House, with support from Screwfix and Hadrian’s Trust.
The improvements include a fully accessible, open-plan reception area and dementia-friendly planting, designed to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for the many older people, carers, and families who use the charity’s services.
Age UK North Yorkshire and Darlington has refurbished the reception and garden at its Bradbury House (Image: Supplied)
Nicola Henderson-Begg, income generation manager at Age UK North Yorkshire and Darlington, said: “It’s not just a paint job – it’s a transformation.
“Our reception used to feel cramped and confusing, especially for wheelchair users and people with mobility aids.
“Now it’s open, light, welcoming – and fully accessible.”
Income generation manager Nicola Henderson-Begg (Image: Supplied)
The redesigned reception area features a curved desk, soft seating set back from the doorway, and improved access to a previously under-used adjoining room.
The colour scheme and design choices were made with input from service users, ensuring the space is both practical and comfortable.
Outside, the garden area has also been revitalised.
Reception manager Gemma Folkes (Image: Supplied)
Dementia-friendly planters, funded by Hadrian’s Trust, have been painted in bright colours and filled with herbs, flowers, and tomatoes by day centre users.
Janice, one of the service users, said: “It’s lovely, it really is.
“The colours lift your spirits the moment you walk in, and the new seats are so much easier for me.
Income generation manager Nicola Henderson-Begg (Image: Supplied)
“It feels like they’ve thought about people like me – and that means a lot.”
The charity has described the project as not only a physical improvement, but also a boost to its visibility and connection with the wider community.
Ms Henderson-Begg said: “People walking past stopped to talk.
“We raised awareness of what we do.
“That sense of visibility and community is priceless.”
Fay Scullion, CEO of Age UK North Yorkshire and Darlington, said the improvements support the organisation’s core mission.
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Ms Scullion said: “We want every older person who walks through our doors to feel welcomed, respected, and safe.
“That starts the moment they arrive.”
Bradbury House on Beaumont Street West, Darlington, serves as the main hub for Age UK North Yorkshire and Darlington’s services.
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