A CHARITY which is working to transform Yate’s Shire Way community centre has had to launch a fundraising campaign after its roof was badly damaged by thieves.
Lead has been stripped from the roof of the centre, which is set to become the new home of Paul’s Place, a charity helping adults with physical disabilities.
The charity, currently based in Coalpit Heath, is in the process of completely refitting and refurbishing the building, which has been shut for two years, to provide facilities for its members as well as a community café, allotment and rooms for hire, to help provide an income.
‘Frustrating and heart-breaking’
A spokesperson said: “The roof was the only saving grace, until someone stole the lead and caused severe damage during the robbery.
“This means the charity can’t enter the building, as it’s deemed unsafe.
“The longer the roof remains damaged, the worse it will get and cause further damage inside.
“It also means the rest of the work can’t even begin until the roof is repaired.
“This is frustrating and heart-breaking, as Paul’s Place were just handed the keys after months of waiting.”
New centre move ‘means so much’
Paul’s Place member Ben Holbrook said: “Our move to Shire Way means so much for physically disabled adults.
“Our current day facility has been great, but we need a new building that offers more opportunities, while meeting a growing demand.
“It’s also our chance to give back, by supporting a community café and growing food that will benefit everyone.
“The community can meet us and see for themselves what we’re about.
“They’ll notice we’re not scary or different from them. We breathe the same air and despite our struggles we carry on.
“It opens a window of opportunities for the community in Shire Way to get to know us, talk with us and include us.
“We have the plans in place for Shire Way community centre, but we can’t implement those plans until we move in.”
Fundraising appeal
Paul’s Place has launched a campaign, called Raise the Roof, to find the money to pay for the repairs.
It has set up a page for donations at website JustGiving, which can be found here.