When people see the finished extension at The Mede, they see a beautiful new bedroom, an additional bathroom, and improved facilities for the people who live there. What they do not see are the months of planning, fundraising, meetings, applications, decision-making and teamwork that made it possible.
The project began because it was clear that the existing accommodation no longer fully met the needs of Simon and Claire. Simon's bedroom had become too small to safely accommodate his wheelchair and support needs, while Claire was sharing bathroom facilities that no longer reflected her need for privacy and independence. The extension was designed to address these challenges and ensure both tenants could continue living in the home they love.
Turning that vision into reality was no small task. The project required planning approval, tendering contractors, securing funding, managing budgets, coordinating specialist equipment, carrying out risk assessments, liaising with neighbours, and working closely with families and support providers to minimise disruption throughout the build. Every stage required careful planning and collaboration.
Construction began in June 2026 and involved far more than simply building an extension. Works included the creation of a new bedroom, alterations to existing rooms, installation of a new hoist system, bathroom adaptations, drainage works, fire safety improvements and extensive internal refurbishment. Throughout the project, the welfare of the people living at The Mede remained the priority. Tenants continued to live alongside the building works, supported by staff, families and contractors who worked together to ensure the project progressed safely and smoothly.
The results have been transformational. Simon now has a spacious bedroom that allows staff to support him safely and comfortably while preserving his dignity. Claire has her own bathroom, giving her greater privacy, independence and choice. What started as a building project has become something much more significant, creating an environment that better supports wellbeing, confidence and quality of life.
Rainbow Living would like to express our sincere thanks to everyone who helped make this project possible.
Special thanks must go to John Airdrie, whose professional expertise, project management skills and countless volunteer hours were instrumental in bringing the extension from concept to completion. From the earliest designs and planning applications through to contractor management and final completion, John's dedication ensured the project was delivered to an exceptionally high standard.
We would also like to recognise Ruth Airdrie, whose determination and fundraising expertise helped secure the funding needed to make the project a reality. Through her ability to build relationships with funders and communicate the importance of Rainbow Living's work, she helped secure significant grant funding that transformed what was once an aspiration into a life-changing project for the people who live at The Mede.
We are also deeply grateful to our funders, including the Brenda Winter Trust and the Clare Milne Trust, whose generosity helped turn an ambitious vision into reality. Their support has created a lasting difference in the lives of the people who call The Mede home.
The completion of this project is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when volunteers, families, supporters and professionals work together with a shared purpose. The Mede extension is more than a successful building project. It is an investment in dignity, independence and opportunity, and we are incredibly proud of what has been achieved together.