Church to be converted into hub for community

Disability charity Mosaic 1898 has purchased Whetstone Baptist Church – and now plans to turn it into an all-encompassing hub for Leicestershire’s disabled community.

The organisation, which celebrates its 125th anniversary this year, hopes the project will act as a catalyst to further its work in enhancing the lives of disabled people by creating spaces where they can thrive.

Mosaic 1898 works closely with local businesses and community organisations to ensure its clients have access to the resources and support they need to succeed and live well.

CEO Zoheb Shariff said: “This is a significant milestone for our organisation and a critical step in our ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive community for disabled people. We look forward to serving the community from this new location for years to come.”

The charity, which provides life-enhancing support and care services to more than 2,200 people each year, plans to modernise the church while preserve its historic features.

It comprises three buildings. The Manse, a three-bed home on the grounds, will be transformed into an around-the-clock respite care facility providing nonnursing short breaks for disabled people with complex needs.

The community buildings will become fully accessible to accommodate adult day services, disabled children’s clubs, holistic therapy and wellbeing sessions, peer support groups and information services.

Finally, the iconic chapel is envisaged to become a place for community activities such as exhibitions, events, outreach and vocational training.