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Sept
Harrogate charity launches emergency appeal
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Henshaws Specialist College in Starbeck has launched an urgent appeal to raise £10,000 after a water leak caused significant damage at the college over the weekend.
The leak, which was caused by a burst pipe under a bath, has affected one of the college’s student bedrooms, and the ceiling, bathroom tiling, decoration and furniture will all need to be repaired or replaced.
The worst of the damage is to the specialist ceiling hoist in the bedroom, which will need to be replaced. Ceiling hoists alone cost as much as £5,000 each.
For the student who uses the room, the hoist is essential. It enables them to safely access their bed and move between their bed and wheelchair. Without it, they cannot use their bedroom in the same way or get into their bed safely and comfortably.
Specialist equipment such as hoists plays a vital role in supporting students with physical disabilities and complex needs at Henshaws Specialist College, enabling greater independence while maintaining their safety, dignity and comfort.
The water damage also means the ceiling tiles will need to be replaced, the bedroom ceiling will have to be redecorated, the bathroom tiling repaired, and the damaged furniture – including a wardrobe, chest of drawers and desk – will need to be replaced.
Stephen Tongue, charity director at Henshaws, said:
This happened very suddenly and our priority is making sure the student affected can safely access their bedroom and the facilities they rely on as quickly as possible.
The hoist is particularly important. For this student, it is their means of safely accessing their bed. It is not simply a piece of equipment we can manage without while repairs are completed. It is fundamental to their daily life, safety and dignity.
Alongside replacing the hoist, we also need to repair the damage to the room and replace furniture that has been affected by the water.
We are asking our community to help us raise £10,000 towards these unexpected costs. Every donation, whatever the amount, will help us restore the room and make sure the student has access to the specialist equipment and environment they need.
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