Key Facts
- Project name
- Fortify the Hub
- Location
- Motherwell, North Lanarkshire
- Partners
- Mears North Lanarkshire, Lanarkshire Deaf Hub
- Donated equipment value
- £5,000
- Volunteer hours
- More than 100 hours
- Security improvements
- CCTV system, secure door entry, alarm system
Background
The Lanarkshire Deaf Hub, based in Motherwell, provides a welcoming space where Deaf and hard-of-hearing people can access information, take part in activities, and connect with others in their community through British Sign Language. It also works with schools, health services, and local organisations to promote greater understanding and inclusion.
The 'Fortify the Hub' project was inspired following a chance conversation at the 2025 Provost Awards. That initial meeting led to discussions with Mears North Lanarkshire about how they could support the hub and address its security needs.
Current Situation
New security improvements have been completed at the Motherwell hub through the 'Fortify the Hub' project, a collaborative initiative involving Mears North Lanarkshire. The work included installing a new CCTV system, secure door entry, and alarm system, helping to improve safety for staff, volunteers, service users, and families.
The project included donated equipment worth £5,000, along with more than 100 hours of volunteer time from specialist contractors to prepare the building and install the new systems. North Lanarkshire Provost Kenneth Duffy recently visited the hub to see the work first-hand.
| Contribution | Value |
|---|---|
| Donated equipment | £5,000 |
| Volunteer time | More than 100 hours |
Impacts
The new measures give staff and volunteers greater peace of mind, improve safeguarding for visitors and families, and help ensure the hub can continue providing its vital services.
Provost Duffy said: "The Lanarkshire Deaf Hub plays such an important role in supporting Deaf and hard-of-hearing people and their families across North Lanarkshire. It's a welcoming place where people feel connected, supported and understood."
Kirstie Jameson, customer success manager at Mears North Lanarkshire, added: "This project shows what can be achieved when people come together with a shared goal. By working alongside the hub and our partners, we've been able to create a safer environment that will benefit the Deaf community for years to come."
Future Outlook
Scenario analysis: The possibilities below are not certain predictions.
If the hub continues to receive support from partners like Mears North Lanarkshire, it may be able to expand its services and reach more members of the Deaf community in the future.
The success of the 'Fortify the Hub' project could encourage other organisations to collaborate on similar initiatives, potentially leading to further improvements in community facilities across North Lanarkshire.
However, the long-term impact will depend on ongoing maintenance of the new security systems and continued volunteer involvement. If these are sustained, the hub could remain a safe and welcoming space for years to come.
Source: dailyrecord.co.uk
