Over the many years that Caritas Anchor House has been providing life-changing services to community members in Newham, thousands of people have used the communal lounge and social space. The room had, understandably, seen better days and so earlier this year Caritas Anchor House embarked on a project to completely revamp the space.

The 169-square metre space has been used for a whole host of events and activities over the years, including group wellbeing sessions, fitness classes, employability open days and even award ceremonies. It is also used by residents as a space to come together and build friendships with their peers over films or football games.

Caritas Anchor House asked CRASH for their help and we were delighted when one of their Patrons, VolkerFitzpatrick, came to the rescue and led the major transformational project. Many other CRASH Patrons helped to transform the space too, including Arcadis, A-Plant, Areen Design, Dulux Trade, Imtech and Knauf, and many supporting companies also contributed their professional expertise and materials.

Caritas Anchor House is proud to be more than just a roof over the heads of the 140 people who call it home. By providing tailored guidance and support, along with education, employment and community-building opportunities, we ensure that residents can grow in confidence and move towards leading independent, self-fulfilling lives. That’s why it was so important that the new lounge reflects our ethos and enables residents to feel aspirational, motivated and a sense of community.

Amanda Dubarry, Chief Executive at Caritas Anchor House, said, ‘‘We are delighted to have opened our newly renovated lounge to the residents. It is designed to be a multi-functional and relaxing space, enabling residents to unwind, build their social networks and most importantly, to feel at home.

“We’ve also recently opened our IT and e-learning suite to support residents to keep connected and continue learning. We’re so grateful for the support of CRASH and their Patrons who completed the works and transformed the hub of our building and community. We’re also grateful to those who donated funds towards the project, including Streets of London and Morrisons Foundation.”

The preliminary work included the relocation of the IT suite, which had previously taken up a large part of the lounge, into a dedicated room. Following this, the main construction began and included a full strip out of existing fixtures and fittings, and the supply and installation of a new ceiling, lighting system, flooring, internal doors and electrical work. Once the messy bits were completed, the lounge was redecorated throughout and new furnishings were supplied, to create a fresh and inspiring new environment, and well as zones within the large space.

Becky Holt, CRASH Marketing and Communications Manager, said, “What a transformation! This project is a superb example of what can be achieved when the industry comes together through CRASH and makes a significant social impact.

“Huge thanks to CRASH Patron VolkerFitzpatrick for leading the project and to all Patrons and supporters involved. You should feel incredibly proud that you have made a huge difference to hundreds of homeless people who call Caritas Anchor House their home.”

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