Building Design Northern (BDN) has started construction work on an accessible extension to a Sunderland veterans’ charity’s head office, delivered as part of its social value commitment.
The architectural, structural and civil engineering firm – also behind developments including Sheepfolds Stables and Eastgate Point – is providing design and project management expertise for the rear extension at Veterans in Crisis’ base on Roker Avenue, with groundworks now under way after several years in the making.
The multidisciplinary consultancy has contributed specialist expertise to create a fully accessible space, with the extension set to include improved wheelchair access, hearing loops and enhanced wayfinding for visually impaired visitors.
Once complete, the extension will allow Veterans in Crisis to broaden the range of activities it offers, including art therapy, wellbeing sessions, book clubs and community events, alongside practical support such as cooking facilities, laundry access and shower facilities.
Luke Darwin, director of structural engineering at BDN, said: “Supporting projects like this is something we’re incredibly passionate about. Veterans in Crisis provides life-changing support to former members of the Armed Forces and we’re proud to have been able to contribute our architectural, structural and civil engineering expertise to help make this vision a reality.
“Accessibility was at the heart of the design and it’s rewarding to know that this extension will help ensure more veterans can access the services they need in a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment. Seeing work now underway is fantastic and we look forward to watching the project take shape.”
The project forms part of BDN’s ongoing commitment to supporting charities and community organisations across the North East by sharing its professional expertise.
Paul McLoughlin, business development manager at Veterans in Crisis, said: “We are incredibly appreciative of everything BDN has done for us. They have gone far beyond what we could ever have expected and the support they’ve provided has been exceptional.
“As a small community interest company, funding is always a challenge, and we rely on generating our income to deliver projects like this. Having BDN contribute their expertise as part of their social value commitment has been immense for us and has helped turn what started as a simple idea into a transformational project.
“It will also allow us to expand the activities and support we offer, helping even more veterans rebuild their lives. When the project is complete, it will be a fantastic example of what can be achieved when businesses and charities work together for the benefit of the community.”
Since 2018, Veterans in Crisis has helped more than 500 homeless veterans into housing, and continues to provide emergency accommodation, food bank support, counselling delivered by qualified therapists with lived military experience, and a range of wellbeing services.
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