Christmas comes early to Down’s Syndrome Association HQ

On 9 December 2013, the Teddington headquarters of national charity – The Down’s Syndrome Association (DSA), will be completely transformed in just one day and at no cost by Charity SOS – a new annual charitable initiative that rallies construction industry resources to make a positive change to the working environment of those who dedicate their lives to helping others. The project has been developed by leading workplace and design consultancy Morgan Lovell.

The big day will see up to 80 volunteers and DSA staff come together to strip out old fixtures and fittings, paint walls, lay new flooring, install state-of-the-art AV equipment and stunning designer furniture. The day will culminate with an exciting handover ceremony where DSA staff will get to see their new workplace for the first time.

“Everyone at the DSA works tirelessly to provide support and advice to thousands of families just like ours, so it’s great to see them rewarded with the work environment they truly deserve”, said Down’s Syndrome Association Patron Damon Hill.

The Down’s Syndrome Association is the only charity in the UK to support people with Down's syndrome and their families at every stage of life. From the national office in Teddington, Middlesex and small regional offices in Northern Ireland and Wales, the staff of 36 (some with Down’s Syndrome) work tirelessly to manage a network of over 20,000 members and over 130 local support groups. The organisation was chosen as the first Charity SOS recipient because, despite its pivotal function, the national office has not been refurbished since DSA moved into the Langdon Down Centre in 2004.

“Charity SOS gives us a once in a lifetime opportunity to create a modern, efficient workplace that’s completely tailored to our operational needs”, said Down’s Syndrome Association CEO Carol Boys.

“With all of our funds going towards charitable objectives we could never afford the investment needed to bring our ten year old office up to modern workplace standards. Although we’ve got by with a make-do-and-mend approach, having a vibrant new office will be a huge boost to productivity and morale. ”

Charity SOS is only possible because of the generosity of a host of Morgan Lovell suppliers and donors including Techo, Crown Paints, Orangebox, Forbo and many others, who have come forward to donate everything needed on the project from flooring, paint, AV and furniture to safety equipment, waste disposal, manpower and even catering on the day.

Adrian Welch, Sales Director from Techo UK comments: “Having enjoyed a successful relationship with Morgan Lovell for over 8 years, we are really excited with our collaboration on such an inspiring and worthy project.”