Anne Wall Centre - services for adults
The day service at the Anne Wall Centre works with deafblind adults of all ages and individuals who have sensory impairments with additional learning and other associated disabilities.
The Centre was opened in Barnet, London, in 1994, and has excellent links with the local community.
Our approach
We develop our programmes to meet individuals' needs in a person-centred way, and recognise prior learning so that each individual’s learning plan reflects their needs, preferences, aspirations and skills level.
Methods of communication
Our staff are trained in a variety of communication methods including objects of reference, British Sign Language, gesture, facial expression and body language, tactile cues and symbols, widgit symbols, and photographs, in order to offer a total communication approach.
We also encourage individuals with orientation and mobility, daily living skills and recreational experiences.
Our facilities
The Anne Wall Centre is purpose-built for deafblind people, enabling them to access their environment using visual cues, colour contrasting features and tactile markers to aid orientation and mobility and maintain independence.
Gym
A large space for people to move about in, and participate in sessions including rebound therapy on the trampoline, yoga, physical games and music.
Art room
Sessions include pottery, woodwork, photography, sewing and tactile media. Much of the work produced in the art room is displayed around the Centre and at Sense offices, and has also been sold in exhibitions.
Multi-sensory room
This darkened room is used for relaxation and interactive cause and effect stimulus in which individuals use switches, microphones and sensors to operate lights and sounds in the room.
ICT area
Equipment includes touchscreen computers with accessible switches allowing deafblind people to access them independently, and a large interactive Smart board mounted on the wall.
Spa room
A space where individuals can relax and explore the sensations of bubbles and air jets in the water.
Hydrotherapy pool
The pool is used for physiotherapy, fun and relaxation. People can experience the support of the water, relax their muscles and be assisted to move about.
Training kitchen
Fully accessible and height-adjustable, the kitchen is used daily by the adults who attend the centre for activities such as baking, sensory cooking and preparing their own lunches.
Canteen area
A large space where all users of the Centre and staff can sit down for a communal meal.
Community activities
People are supported to use a wide range of community facilities and to access work in the local area. Work placements help individuals to increase their skills base, meet new people, and be a valued member of the community.
We have three vehicles, including a wheelchair accessible minibus, and organise day trips, which have previously included visiting a chocolate factory, jet skiing, going to the theatre and cinema, and seaside visits.
Allotment
We have access to an allotment where we produce much of our fruit, vegetables and salads during the summer months.
We are open throughout the year from 9am to 4pm, as well as occassional evenings and weekends. Families and professionals are welcome to visit informally by appointment.
Contact us
The Anne Wall Centre
12 Hyde Close
Barnet
Hertfordshire
EN5 5TJ
Tel: 020 8449 0964
Textphone: 020 8449 9876
Fax: 020 8364 8063
Email: awcenquiries@sense.org.uk
First published: Friday 20 July 2012
Updated: Thursday 20 September 2012