Oaklands Community Centre welcomes all with new accessibility ramp

Oaklands Community Centre in Saltash is now fully accessible to everyone, thanks to the installation of a new disabled ramp funded by Harmony Fire. This exciting improvement ensures that people with mobility needs can easily access the centre and participate in its many activities and events.

The ramp was made possible through Harmony Fire’s Social Value Fund, which supports projects that benefit local communities. The Oaklands Committee reached out for help to improve access, and Cornwall Housing’s Engagement Team stepped in to make it happen.

Nicky, who uses an electric scooter, shared how the ramp has already made a difference: "It’s amazing to see this change. It’s a real godsend, making it much easier to drive into the centre. I’ll definitely use it more – I know others, like the lady in the electric wheelchair, have found it just as helpful!"

A Thriving Hub for Saltash

Oaklands Community Centre has become a vibrant hub of activity, offering a variety of events and services for locals, including:

• Community Info Café & Mobile Food Larder, funded by Community Enterprises PL12, with visits from local Cornwall Councillors.
• Regular activities like bingo, craft clubs, knit and natter groups, mindfulness sessions, and social events with Age Concern Saltash.
• A beautiful community garden created by Friends of Tincombe, featuring sensory plants, a pergola, raised beds, a bug hotel, and a privacy fence. With funding from Cornwall Council Community Chest grants, the garden will soon expand to include a vegetable and wildlife area.

"Oaklands has become such an important space for people – for some, it’s their main social connection. It really feels like a little family here," says James Jenkins, Chair of the Committee. "Our bingo nights are legendary – with cash prizes and plenty of laughs, thanks to Billy’s banter!"

Get Involved

Oaklands Community Centre welcomes everyone in Saltash to join in its events and activities. To stay updated, search Oaklands Community Centre on Facebook or email Oaklands@insaltash.co.uk for more information.

This new ramp marks another step toward making Oaklands an inclusive space for the entire community.