Oak Green Lodge To Install Air Conditioning Systems With Support From The Eveson Trust

Options for Life is proud to announce the successful receipt of a £11,956 grant from The Eveson Trust, which will fund the installation of a comprehensive air conditioning system at their Oak Green Lodge hub. This much-needed upgrade will ensure a more comfortable, accessible, and climate-resilient environment for their participants- individuals with learning disabilities and/or autism who rely on their services for personal growth, engagement, and well-being.

In recent years, global warming has led to an increase in summer temperatures, causing uncomfortably hot conditions inside the hub. This has significantly disrupted daily activities and affected both participants and staff. Many of their service users experience physical disabilities, sensory sensitivities, or medical conditions such as epilepsy and respiratory issues, which are made worse by extreme heat. The installation of air conditioning systems will help regulate indoor temperatures, enabling everyone to engage more fully in essential activities such as arts and crafts, music, physical fitness, beauty sessions, and sensory therapy.

Oak Green Lodge is a two-storey, fully accessible building offering 14 rooms, including a reception, dining area, art and beauty rooms, creative spaces, kitchen, and staff offices. While it benefits from excellent access features such as ramps and a lift, the building lacked climate control measures to cope with rising temperatures—until now. This grant will support the purchase and installation of indoor AC units, wall-mounted and condensing systems, and all necessary electrical and structural work required to complete the project.

The air conditioning will be installed in key areas, including the hall, dining spaces, art room, beauty room, creative upstairs space, and the upstairs office. The project will be delivered over six months, with care taken to minimise disruption to ongoing activities and ensure safety and efficiency through testing and professional oversight.

“We are incredibly grateful to The Eveson Trust for this most desirable funding,” said Nicola Thomson, Chief Executive Officer at Options for Life. “This project will dramatically improve the quality of life for our participants, allowing them to enjoy their time with us comfortably, even during the hottest days of the year.”

The upgrade also aligns with their long-term goals of sustainable service delivery. Modern AC systems are energy-efficient, helping to reduce their environmental impact and operational costs. Protecting equipment and activity resources from heat-related damage adds another layer of value to this investment.

Options for Life is committed to creating inclusive, safe, and welcoming environments for all who walk through their doors. This latest development at Oak Green Lodge is a significant step forward in achieving that goal.