We had the pleasure of welcoming Emma Reynolds, MP for Wycombe, to Oak Lodge on Friday 11th October. This visit was a wonderful opportunity for Emma to experience firsthand our skills hub and discuss our commitment to supporting individuals with additional needs.
After introductions, Emma joined us for a tour of our facilities. She explored our vibrant spaces designed to enhance learning and development. From our sensory rooms to our activity areas, it was clear that Oak Lodge is dedicated to creating an inclusive and stimulating environment. At the time a Makaton session was taking place, one of the ways we enable all our clients to be able to communicate.
We discussed with Emma how we support clients in developing essential life skills for independent living. We offer various activities that include swimming lessons, public transport access, and community engagement activities.
Emma was keen to hear more about our volunteering initiative. Clients are currently volunteering at a care home and helping out in our headquarters with admin tasks, but we are looking for more opportunities helping in organisations such as shops, libraries and community centres. Volunteering allows individuals to acquire essential skills and qualities, build self-esteem, increase social interaction, feel a sense of community involvement and belonging, and promote personal growth.
Emma also gained insights into the diverse range of clients we support at Oak Lodge. Our clients come from various backgrounds and possess different skill levels, which makes our approach both unique and adaptable. We believe in providing individualised support that uplifts each person's abilities.
Due to the closure of The Chilterns Centre likely in late 2025/early 2026, we highlighted to Emma our plans for a new location, enabling expansion on our current format within the Wycombe area. This expansion is a critical step in our mission to serve more individuals in need of our support within Wycombe and the surrounding areas. This was especially relevant in light of the plans announced last week for consultation, to close 3 adult day centres in Bucks.
Our longer-term vision is to increase the capacity of the clients we support and meet the growing demand for our services, as well as supporting those displaced by the possible closure of other services. With a new layout in mind, we aim to create more personalised spaces that cater to the varying needs of our clients.
We are grateful to Emma for taking the time to visit us, learn about Oak Lodge and our engagement with the Wycombe community and we welcome Emma’s ongoing support with our exciting new plans ahead!
Comments