A new basket swing has been installed at Lanark Lodge in Duns thanks to the generous support of three local community organisations.
The purchase of the swing follows a visit to the learning disability setting by members of the Duns Rugby Football Club Grizzlies, who were keen to support a local project that would make a lasting difference to people using the service. Working with staff at the centre, the Grizzlies went on to coordinate additional funding support from the Berwickshire Charity Truck Run and the Preston and Abbey St Bathans Community Trust to make the project possible.
Making a difference for service users
Designed to be inclusive and supportive, the basket swing provides a safe and comfortable outdoor space where people can relax, enjoy gentle movement and spend time socialising. For many service users, it offers a calming sensory experience as well as opportunities to build confidence and wellbeing through outdoor activity.
The swing has quickly become a popular feature of the garden and is already making a positive difference to those who access the service.
Tom McGregor, Lanark Lodge Service User
“It’s a 10 out of 10 from me.”
Gary Shaw, Duns Rugby Football Club Grizzlies
“When we visited Lanark Lodge and met the staff and people who attend the service, we were keen to help in a practical way. We’re delighted to have worked with local charities to support this project and provide something that will be enjoyed for years to come.”
Hazel Brydon, Berwickshire Charity Truck Run
“We’re extremely pleased to have been able to provide funds to help go some way to providing the swing. We had a great morning at the centre and were blown away by the facilities and the attention to detail that the staff team display, responding to the needs of each of the users.”
James Robson, Preston and Abbey St Bathans Community Trust
“We’re delighted to be able to support local community projects within our area. This area is lucky to have Lanark Lodge and their team based in Duns providing such wonderful support and care within our community. Many thanks also to the Grizzlies from the Duns Rugby club who liaised with the centre, took this project on and made it happen.”
Councillor David Parker, Executive Member for Health and Wellbeing
“Lanark Lodge plays a vital role in the Berwickshire community, offering not only essential support but also friendship, opportunity and a strong sense of belonging for people with learning disabilities. This project is a wonderful example of that community spirit in action, with local people coming together with service users and staff to make a difference, and our sincere thanks go to all of the organisations involved for their generosity and commitment. The new swing is already a much-valued addition to the setting’s outdoor space and will be enjoyed for many years to come.
“The team is now keen to build on this fantastic support and would welcome hearing from anyone who would be interested in helping to enhance what’s on offer for people who use the service by getting involved in future fundraising activities. Whether you’ve got some spare time or new ideas, could offer practical help or would like to simply come along and join the fun—they’d love to hear from you. Just give them a call on 01361 882540.”
More information
- Images available from our Flickr page
- Lanark Lodge is one of four learning disability support services provided by Adult Social Care across the Borders, alongside the Katharine Elliot Centre (Teviot and Liddesdale), Green Gardens (Tweeddale) and Rutherford Square (Kelso). The Eildon service in Galashiels is delivered by Cornerstone, an independent provider commissioned by the Council. Each service offers a blended model of building-based, outreach, and home day support for individuals with a learning disability, helping people to live full and active lives. Find out more on our Learning Disability webpages.