The idea
This is a project to provide a fit for purpose new commercial kitchen for the Chester Deaf Centre. Chester Deaf Centre was built in 1894, the centre's last refurbishment was 27 years ago and as such the kitchen is now in need of a complete refit and new appliances.
This project will also require the safe live removal of a colony of honeybees discovered in the cavity wall of the building to a dedicated hive off site.
What we'll deliver
- Install a new commercial style kitchen and appliances.
- Safe/live removal of colony of honeybees and honey from the cavity wall of the building.
- Generate more income from private hire through the improved facilities
- Establish a sense of pride in the building by/for the Deaf Community.
Why it's a great idea
This project will provide a fit for purpose new commercial kitchen for the Chester Deaf Centre with new appliances.
The kitchen is in daily use and the improvements will benefit 300 users.
The new kitchen will benefit regular user groups of the building, which includes:
3 x Deaf Groups
Deaf Youth Club (Youth Vibe)
British Sign Language (BSL) Courses (Tutors Trustees)
Dee-Sign BSL Charity Choir (formed 25 years ago)
Deaf Cafe 1 x monthly to enable BSL friends to meet and socialise in their first and preferred language BSL.
Private hire use by:
Chester Guitar Circle.
Chester Stroke Club.
Jumping Jacks Group (social activities for adults with learning difficulties)
Upper Floor office rented by staff of Deafness Support Network.
The Choir are all volunteers who have been supporting the Charity for 25 years and continue today.
The Centre has been Managed by volunteers for 46 years proving sustainability.
Steps to get it done
- Installation of new kitchen
- Installation of new kitchen appliances
- Live removal of a colony of honeybees and honey in the cavity wall of the building
We have a phased plan to improve the Centre.
Stage 1 - rear social area.
Stage 2 - main function hall (already completed).
Stage 3- new kitchen facilities & appliances.
Other activities taking place at the centre:
Regular BSL classes - benefit those wanting to pursue a career using Sign Language and an award evening was held in September 22 when students were presented with their Stage 1, 2 & 3 certificates - Tutors are Trustees.
Choir practice - every Saturday and store their equipment,
Youth club - have fun learning life skills (cooking a meal for themselves) doing craft work, having parties, and taking part in Duke of Edinburgh Award tasks.
Members of the Deaf community meet to socialise and meet up with old school friends having attended Deaf schools in their youth,
They also have their Christmas dinner there using outside caterers who will be glad to see the updated kitchen.
The charity provides taxi services to the centre for disabled/elderly members from rural areas.
