A disused bin shed has been transformed into a new community space for residents of a supported-living scheme in Mansfield Woodhouse.

The Portland Street scheme provides accommodation and support to adults with mild learning disabilities, and is run by Metropolitan — one of the UK’s leading providers of affordable housing and care and support services.

Eleven residents live in their own self-contained flats at Portland Street, and receive support to develop a range of life skills, including money management and housekeeping. The aim of the scheme is to enable residents to live as independently as possible.

Built with nearly £10,000 of Big Lottery funding, the new area will act as a communal space, hosting workshops and therapeutic drop-in sessions. A portion of the money awarded was also spent on computer equipment for the room.

Joining scheme staff and residents, Mayor of Mansfield Kate Allsop cut the ribbon to officially open the new area.

Also at the event was Ann Gibbons, executive director of care and support at Metropolitan, and representatives from other local care agencies and community organisations.

Ann said: “I thank the Big Lottery Fund and all the local businesses and community members who donated plants, ornaments and other furnishings.”

Pictured are Portland Street care and support worker Pat Walsh, Mansfield mayor Kate Allsop and Portland Street resident Michael Richardson.