Charity to move after 80 years
A CITY children’s charity is moving from the West End premises which has been its home for more than 80 years.
Notre Dame Children’s Centre, which was set up in 1931 in Athole Gardens, was founded to respond to the needs of extremely vulnerable children who were experiencing poverty and deprivation.
At the time the work done was innovative as psychotherapy and play therapy was virtually unheard of.
Today the charity provides assessment and ongoing weekly support to troubled, vulnerable and in some cases bereaved youngsters.
Their parents or carers also receive support to allow them to understand and cope with the child’s issues.
Each year, Notre Dame works with around 100 children aged between five and 18 and their families with a small team of play therapists, psychologists and social workers.
Many of the children are living in foster care, have been adopted or are living with grandparents as they own parents are unable to look after them.
Earlier this year, the charity was told the Athole Gardens premises were to be sold and started the hunt for a new base.
As a result, it will move on January 9 from the West End to Kelvin House on Balmore Road, Possilpark with the service resuming on Monday, January 19.
Centre head Margaret Brown said: “Staff are sad to be leaving such a well established and familiar building holding so many memories but it is time to move the service on to pastures new into modern, purpose built premises which are more child friendly.”
The charity’s new home is opposite Possilpark railway station in a building at the edge of a small industrial estate and is served by good bus links.
Ms Brown said: “We are sad to leave the West End because our roots are there but parking in the area is a nightmare and there is unlimited parking at the new premises.
“The new building is presently being renovated with play, therapy and counselling rooms all on the ground floor.”
The charity’s existing home in Athole Gardens has several flights of stairs but the new premises will be accessible to all.
Ms Brown said: “What we were looking for was something modern and bright which complied with the legislation on disability and what we have is a modern, up to date building which is easily accessible.”