Chad Gordon Autism Campus opens in Tottenham
SCALD worked together with commissioners and architects on the design of this ground-breaking centre, which provides a range of bespoke services for local people with complex autism, learning disabilities and Asperger syndrome, culminating in the new campus being shortlisted for the New London Architecture Awards 2021 in the ‘Caring’ category.
Research conducted by Healthwatch Haringey entitled ‘Review of day centre provision for people with learning disabilities’ sought to understand what good quality of life looks like for people with learning disabilities, their carers and families. The research focused on their use of day centres and informed the commissioners and the architect.
You can vote for the building on the NLA's website.
The building designs have been influenced by the sensory needs of people with autism, including adaptable mood lighting to create a calm environment when needed, and a garden that service users can enjoy.
The campus is named after Chad Gordon, a local adult with autism who was tragically murdered in May 2020. It had a commemorative opening in May this year, at which a memorial plaque was planted in Chad’s memory a year after his death, with his family in attendance.
The campus houses two new services:
- The Haringey Opportunities Project – a dedicated positive behavioural support day service offering specialist support for people with severe and complex learning disabilities and autism. The building has capacity for 30 users per day with access to a brand-new training kitchen.
- The #ActuallyHaringey Autism Hub – a space co-produced with autistic residents and community groups, offering support and advice to the local autistic community, including skills-based training. There is access to a garden where local residents can showcase their skills in music, cookery, gardening and art.
