Capability Scotland is planning to build a community for individuals with additional and complex needs and has gathered feedback from disabled people who use the services, as well as families, staff and the wider community.

The charity behind the proposed £25 million facility at Bertha Park in Perth is engaging in a co-production processes – a practice that sees services and designs tested and heavily shaped by the feedback of those most impacted

It has built a full-size model of a future apartment within the theatre of its existing Upper Springland site where it cares for 59 adults with a severe and complex disabilities.

Jennifer Dalrymple, co-production lead with Capability Scotland, said: “The mock up has been a huge success. Traditionally, developments of this scale and ambition would have been presented to staff and residents as a finished product. We want to build the UK’s best enabling and inclusive accommodation for people with severe and complex needs, at the heart of the Bertha Park village community. By engaging so intensively in co-production we hope to understand how even the smallest detail can impact the experience of residents and staff. Enabling them to physically experience an example of their new apartment provides us with incredible insight.

“Done right, this means we get the design as close to perfect at the first time of asking rather than frustrating flaws emerging from the outset – and we can achieve our lofty ambitions.” 

As part of Dalrymple’s role, she has meticulously collated all feedback by subject, which will allow designers to understand how the smallest details can have a big impact. Common items addressed include wheelchair storage and access, bathroom space, layout and the types of doors used.

Dalrymple added: “The next stage of partnership working will include a number of focus groups to discuss a range of topics including how technology can empower people, outdoor space, service delivery, catering, and transport to determine what people want life at Bertha Park to be like. This will be a vital piece of work to capture the knowledge and experience of everyone which will strengthen the project hugely.”

Senior staff from Capability Scotland’s project board have visited other services that have gone through a similar process which has highlighted more opportunities to be explored for the new site.

Stephen Oswald, Capability Scotland’s project lead, said: “We’re starting with a blank canvas so it’s an exciting process and one which we can ensure our key stakeholders voices are heard from the start. We would encourage anyone who hasn’t shared their feedback – and has a clear interest in the project – to get in touch.”