New book, Journey To The Haven, tells story behind pioneering Inverness centre for young people with complex needs
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It took a lot of persistence, people and pounds to build Scotland’s first integrated specialist centre for young people with complex needs at a site in Inverness.
Now, the full story behind the Haven Centre, which officially opened in August last year, is outlined in a new book.
Journey To The Haven by learning disability campaigner Elsie Normington outlines how her vision for the centre finally became a reality.
The book will be launched on May 10 at an event at Smithton Church which will include interviews and music.
Pipers and cheers herald opening of Haven Centre
Pioneering Haven Centre for young people with complex needs in Highlands to mark formal opening
Watch: What makes Haven Centre in Inverness unique in Scotland?
The multi-purpose Haven Centre in Murray Road, Smithton, includes an indoor specialist play centre with child care facilities, a community cafe, meeting spaces and garden plus three respite flats for young adults up to the age of 30.
Mrs Normington, chairwoman and founder of the Elsie Normington Foundation, has driven the project which took 10 years to bring to fruition.
In the book, she traces the journey and pays tribute to donors, fundraisers, the local community and grant funders who helped the foundation reach the momentous milestone.
In the book’s foreword, Inverness Courier columnist John Dempster states: “That the goal was achieved was due to the extent of support the Haven project had from the local community, and this level of community buy-in was largely due to the inspiration and positivity of the indefatigable Elsie, persistent in her commitment to be ‘a voice for those who have no voice’.
He says the book is not simply a record of fundraising, planning and construction but also of Mrs Normington’s personal life and struggles - and at times, of discouragement in the decades-long process.
“It’s also a celebration of a huge achievement, and a route-map to guide others contemplating major projects.”
It is also a record of her resolute Christian faith.
Former Smithton Church Minister David Meredith will interview Mrs Normington and friends on their Journey to the Haven at the book launch taking place on May 10 at 7.30pm.
The evening also includes book signing, a performance by guest singer Julie Keen and refreshments.
