Caring For Life (CFL) is a compassionate Christian charity founded in 1987 with a mission to address the pressing issue of homelessness in Leeds. Established by a small yet dedicated group on the outskirts of the city, Caring For Life Crag House Farm charity has since developed a range of impactful projects aimed at providing both residential-supported housing and essential support for at-risk adults living in their own homes.
Over recent years, marked by the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of creating clean, spacious environments where vulnerable individuals can receive the support they need in safety and dignity has become increasingly urgent. The brief for Caring For Life included more space within their farm projects, which has become particularly urgent as the charity seeks to expand its support for mental, physical, and emotional well-being.
“We have helped thousands of vulnerable people in Leeds and became acutely aware that we needed more space to help more. Because of the opportunity, we felt it was right to really think from the ground up.” – Tim Parkinson, Crag House Farm
Design & Suitability: The design of the new facility draws inspiration from the surrounding agricultural vernacular, with timber cladding and metal standing seam roofing reflecting the local aesthetic. The largest section houses a bright, open dining space, along with counselling spaces, a catering kitchen, office space, and a new harvest store. The building creates a new hub for social activities, meetings, dining, and counselling services.
Constructed with a timber frame, achieving high levels of air tightness and reducing both carbon footprint and operational costs. The facility will be fully accessible, including a kitchen for wheelchair users and toilets for all genders, ensuring inclusivity and safeguarding.
“The building is a dream for us! We think it is a stunning building!” – Tim Parkinson, Crag House Farm
A Vital New Resource: The new building ensures Caring For Life can continue providing 240 meals daily to vulnerable individuals, alongside delivering vital support services in a clean and welcoming environment. This project will allow the charity to meet the growing needs of its beneficiaries now and into the future, sustaining their mission to care for the most vulnerable members of the community.
“It’s all about the people who are vulnerable. Is there anything we can do thats going to help them more? This building we believe does. And that’s what Caring For Life is about. Looking at the needs of those in the city and our community and how we can serve them best.” – Tim Parkinson, Crag House Farm
This project showcased the excellence that a collaborative approach to building can deliver. As the lead architect, we partnered with the client, Crag House Farm, and the main contractor, Juniper Construction. All parties were overjoyed to see the designed character and charm within the completed building—a new home to help homeless and vulnerable people in Leeds now and in the future.
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