Red Gables update - conversion works

The home and garden are being refurbished to create a welcoming, child-centred environment that will provide short breaks for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Sunderland City Council's Cabinet for Children's Services, Councillor Michael Butler said: "As we all know and recognise, our children are our futures and so providing and ensuring they get the very best is at the heart of our city and with our work at Red Gables.

"Fitting out Red Gables for this new use is part of our mission to help and provide the very best as we create a homely centre and outdoor space for short breaks."

It will offer overnight stays and a safe space for children to develop independence, socialise, and also have fun. It will give parents and carers valuable time to recharge, knowing their child is safe and supported by experienced staff. Work starting at Red Gables follows an extensive planning and consultation process.

Red Gables will also provide a significant boost to employment and specialist care provision with round-the-clock support staff. The investment reflects both the City Council's and Together for Children's commitment to delivering high-quality, personalised care for children with SEND needs, while strengthening the city's workforce and creating opportunities for skilled professionals to make a difference in the community.

It was purchased for its spacious layout, accessibility, and outdoor space that help make it ideal for creating a homely and supportive setting. Altogether, including the purchase price and conversion, the project has an allocated budget of £1.708m.

Red Gables will accommodate up to five children at a time and include features such as a sensory room, accessible bathrooms, and specialist equipment to meet diverse needs. External alterations include making the property accessible for wheelchair users (ramps, low threshold doors, automatic doors) alongside internal alterations, such as a lift, accessible kitchen and hoists.

Simon Marshall, Chief Executive of Together for Children, said: "We have asked families and our SEND youth group about finer details inside the property and for their views on outside play equipment. This feedback has led to us adding ideas such as a sensory garden where touch, sound and smell can be enjoyed by all visitors, especially those who may be visually impaired.

"It's a very exciting project, we're pleased with the progress and looking forward to the future."

As works complete in coming months, Red Gables will be inspected and licensed by the national children's services watchdog Ofsted and an opening date will be confirmed.