The Platform Lift Company supplied and installed a freestanding platform lift at ECHO’s Studio Mirai project in Leominster. Through a charitable initiative, the lift was provided free of charge, with only delivery, survey and installation costs applying, enabling significant improvements to accessibility and future project development.
ECHO for Extra Choices in Herefordshire Ltd is the largest provider of community activities for adults with learning disabilities in Herefordshire. The organisation supports individuals to develop skills, independence and confidence through a wide range of creative, social and vocational projects.
At Studio Mirai in Leominster, ECHO operates a furniture upcycling workshop within a modern brick building comprising a ground-floor workspace, display area and kitchen, with a mezzanine level above. While the ground floor was fully accessible, the mezzanine was previously accessed only via a metal staircase, limiting its use to staff and restricting the building’s full potential.
As the staircase was not suitable for disabled participants or wheelchair users, a safe and compliant access solution was required to open up the space for wider use.
The Platform Lift Company supplied a freestanding platform lift suitable for installation within a rented building, avoiding the need for structural alterations.
In line with The Platform Lift Company’s commitment to supporting the charitable sector, the business launched its “Free Platform Lift for a Worthy Cause” initiative. This programme enabled one selected charity to receive a platform lift free of charge, with only delivery, survey, and installation costs applying.
ECHO was selected as the recipient of this initiative, allowing them to benefit from a substantial reduction in overall project costs. This made a significant difference to the viability of the scheme and enabled the organisation to redirect available funding towards additional improvements, equipment and facilities within the Studio Mirai project.
The lift was chosen as the most suitable solution to provide safe and reliable access to the mezzanine level and support its transformation into an active workspace. No bespoke modifications were required, and the installation integrated effectively within the existing building layout.
The installation of the platform lift has greatly improved accessibility within the building, enabling disabled participants to safely access the mezzanine level for the first time.
The previously unused space is now being developed into a dedicated project area, creating four new workstations for activities such as upholstery and stencilling. This expansion is expected to increase participant capacity by up to 20 additional places per day, significantly enhancing the reach and impact of the Studio Mirai project.
The lift has also supported greater independence and confidence among participants, who have begun familiarising themselves with the new space alongside staff during the refurbishment phase.
Visually, the lift integrates neatly into the building and remains discreet within the overall environment, with its positioning ensuring it does not dominate the space.
ECHO expressed sincere gratitude for the support provided, highlighting that being selected for the “Free Platform Lift for a Worthy Cause” initiative has had a meaningful impact on their ability to progress the project sooner than anticipated, while freeing up funds for further improvements and equipment.
Overall, the project has delivered a substantial enhancement in accessibility and usability, supporting ECHO’s continued commitment to inclusive opportunities for adults with learning disabilities across Herefordshire.
