The Meath Capital Appeal

We are proud to care for vulnerable adults with complex epilepsy and disabilities and to have done so for over 130 years at our beautiful and historic site in Godalming.

OUR MAIN BUILDING Our historic main building, dates from the 17th Century and was once home to General James Oglethorpe who founded the state of Georgia, USA. In 1891 The Countess of Meath set about adapting the house to suit her vision of a ‘safe and happy home’ for people who lived with epilepsy. Over 130 years later, we need to future-proof our beautiful home by caring for the fabric of the Grade II listed building.

Large sections of the roof need replacing, along with further external works, including the replacement, or repair of windows. Our planned works will honour our heritage and remain in keeping with the historical house, while ensuring that we continue to deliver the best care possible with all modern comforts.

“Having been a supporter of the charity over many years, I am privileged to be President of The Meath Capital Appeal. This Appeal will enable The Meath to future-proof their facilities and services for vulnerableadults over many years to come. The Meath receives no statutory funding for the upkeep of their buildings. Funds raised through the Capital Appeal will not only enable the charity to preserve their historic Grade II listed manor house, but will also enable their residents, who live with complex epilepsy and disabilities, to enjoy more comfortable accommodation through the use of latest technologies to keep them as safe as possible. Please join me in supporting The Meath to care for their future by donating to The Meath Capital Appeal.

Thank you.” Richard Lockwood, Patron

During summer 2023 we launched The Meath Capital Appeal; The Appeal is enabling us to future-proof our home and services for vulnerable adults over many years to come. Our first phase of essential works on the exterior of the main house is nearing completion and we are extremely grateful to all those who have kindly donated to help us preserve our beautiful historic building.

The Meath Capital Appeal also encompasses major internal improvements. The next phase of this vital appeal will enable us to provide the safest home possible for the vulnerable adults we support through the upgrade of our internal systems. Due to the risks associated with complex epilepsy, the use of modern technologies will reduce the risk to life, and provide peace of mind to residents, staff and relatives.

INTERNAL SAFETY SYSTEMS WHICH WILL BE REPLACED ARE: FIRE SAFETY

We will fit a fully automated detect and protect fire alarm system linked to the local fire station. Fire panels and alarms will be installed in all staff offices of the main building. Once activated, automatic alerts are sent to local emergency services and nominated staff members, enabling a fast response and safe evacuation of residents.

In addition, the system will be linked to all fire doors which close automatically, if fire is detected. We shall also install a range of interfaces, heat sensors, smoke sensors, optical/heat sensors and manual call points.

EMERGENCY CARER ON CALL SYSTEM Each bedroom, bathroom and communal space in our residential services has a call bell help system. This enables the care staff or the people we support to call for assistance when required quickly. The current system we have was installed over 30 years ago and an up to dated system will bring this vital provision into the 21st Century.

AIR CONDITIONING

Heat is a key trigger for seizures and sadly we see a huge increase in seizures during the hotter months. We will introduce air conditioning units to the bedrooms on the top floor of the main building and in communal spaces on the 1st and 2nd floors, this will enable rooms to be kept at a constant temperature for the safety and comfort of the people we support.

“I think the heat at the top of the building affects me and my friends very much. It can feel hotter inside than it is outside. I have a fan in my bedroom which helps a bit, but the lounge is the hottest room on Cedar View.”

Maria, Resident

CCTV

In addition, we will install an external CCTV system around our main house. This will provide additional security for the people we support but remain respectful of individual privacy.

The total cost of The Meath Capital Appeal is

£1.1m.

YOUR DONATION COULD

FUND

INTERNAL SYSTEMS OF A RESIDENTIAL SERVICE

£15,500

RESTORATION OF STONEWORK

£10,000

DISABILITY DOOR

£7,000

SPONSOR A FRENCH DOOR

£3,000

RESTORE A WINDOW

£2,500

RESTORE A CHIMNEY POT

£2,000

CARER ON-CALL SYSTEM PER ROOM

£1,000

In addition to our capital appeal, we continue to fundraise to sustain and maintain our non-statutory services for the people we support.

To find out more about helping us to care for our future by donating to our Capital Appeal please contact Lucy Miguda, Head of Fundraising:

t: 01483 411071 e: lucy.miguda@meath.org.uk

On behalf of the people we support, thank you.