Revamped facilities at Ben’s Centre.

CRASH is delighted to announce the transformation of Ben’s Centre thanks to the generosity and support of CRASH Corporate Patrons: Imtech, Arcadis, AECOM, Dulux Trade, Hilti and a number of CRASH supporters.

Ben’s Centre work with some of the most vulnerable people in Sheffield, offering them support with substance misuse, alcoholism, homelessness and much more. Their holistic and non-judgemental approach is essential to how they work with clients to enrich their lives. Ben’s Centre is a home for those who have forgotten what home is.

The need

In 2014 Ben’s Centre had to relocate its services to a new listed building which did not have suitable facilities to serve meals and provide washing facilities, therefore they were unable to fully operate their drop-in services.

Ben’s Centre approached CRASH for help to modify the basement of the new building to provide new shower and toilet facilities and refurbish the stairs to provide safe and user-friendly access for staff and clients. They also wanted to give their existing kitchen a makeover with new cooking and extraction facilities.

The CRASH solution

CRASH Corporate Patron AECOM carried out a drainage survey, while fellow Patron Imtech carried out all the ventilation design and worked with the architects, Ikonografik, to get the plans approved. Imtech, along with their subcontractors, then provided all of the labour and materials for the installation free of charge. CRASH Patron Dulux Trade donated paint, which completely refreshed the drop-in centre and Patron Hilti donated project materials.

CRASH supporters: Wavin Osma Plastic, Howdens Joinery Co. Siniat, Lucion Environmental and Altro provided free and discounted construction products including plasterboard, a brand new kitchen, pipes and ventilation materials.