Wirral Autistic Society

Wirral Autistic Society’s Respite Care Facility at Raby Mere was the first multi occupancy autistic specialist respite unit in the country. A highly sensitive solution was required for this sensitive client base at an ecologically important site, within the green belt. The design took a holistic approach to include construction process, impact on surrounding environment, health & well-being of autistic residents and carefully sourced materials using Green Book to deliver in terms of ‘Whole Life’ sustainability.

The facility comprises six ensuite rooms together with shared communal living spaces and staff accommodation. The building was designed as two separate wings capable of operating independently from each other if necessary.

The completed scheme includes for a very thorough response to the needs of autistic individuals. “Working in partnership with Paddock Johnson on the creation of The Ferns Respite Centre we created a state-of-the-art building that functions fantastically to support the needs of our staff and Service Users. The autism specific design has been hailed as one of the best facilities in the UK and is a landmark building in the care and support of those affected by Autism.” Steve Nunwick, Director of Estates and Facilities