Moving aspirations on the menu in Calderdale

Hearts are thumping with pride at Scope Calderdale Community Outreach service as they celebrate their successful Big Lottery grant, culinary prowess and a move to premises in the heart of town.

They’re changing their name too. After consulting with customers, the new transformed service will be called Scope Aspire Services.

Scope Aspire Services: new premises

Service Manager Peter Wardhaugh is keen to outline the positive new changes. “We’re becoming a more community engaged and focused service. This means we’re making the most of what is now on our doorstep, as well as allowing our customers to be fully involved in community life.”

Scope Aspire Services has moved to Halifax town centre. “It allows us to access adult education, leisure and other practical living choices now we’re at the heart of the town’s economy,” said Peter.

Close to the new premises, 10 disabled youngsters, aged 14-18, tested their culinary skills at a special event held at the renowned The Cooking School located in the restored 19th century Dean Clough Mills. Italian food was on the menu, as they tried their hand at pizza, fresh pasta and tiramisu.

Funded by Calderdale Council’s Aiming High for Disabled Children programme, the Italian cookery session was led by chef tutor, Matthew Benson, who has cooked for royalty. After a demonstration, the young people, all with complex support needs and associated impairments, enjoyed creating their own classic dishes.

lLooking back on the day, Peter said: “Disabled young people should have the chance to enjoy the same opportunities as other people their age.”

Stirring up interest

During what was turning out to be a busy month for all involved with Scope Calderdale in March, customers and volunteers expressed their delight with the new location. “It’s a much better service, more modern,” said customer Alison. “I think it‘s good we are getting more involved with the community and community life, sharing our skills and talents with them, and vice versa.”

“Scope Aspire’s facilities are great. They have a fantastic new kitchen, which is fully accessible. The customers love it. It’s the first time one young man has ever turned a cooker on,” said Sue, a volunteer.

“As part of the move, we also have our own area of a community allotment, which is shared by local primary schools, the allotment association and the youth offending team. There’s a real community spirit there”, Peter added. “We’re hoping to literally see the fruits of our labours in the summer – strawberries, salad and herbs.”

Mentoring gets Big Lottery boost

The Big Lottery Fund grant of £342,751 is another real boost to Scope Aspire. It complements the changes and will pay for a mentoring service in Calderdale over the next five years.

Peter said: "This money will help disabled people get involved in volunteering and mentoring in the community, acting as role models."