You might have noticed the ‘For Sale’ sign on our building in Kirkstall – this is part of our wider plans to strengthen how we deliver support across the city and region.
The building, De Lacey House on Abbey Road, has recently been put up for sale and is being marketed with a guide price of £375,000. Originally opened in 1913 as the Abbey Picture House cinema, the site has played a varied role in the local community over the decades, including as a bingo hall and, more recently, as a base for Leeds Mind’s employment support work. Read more on West Leeds Dispatch.
Focusing on communities across Leeds
The sale reflects a shift in how we provide support. While buildings have historically played an important role in our work, most of our charity’s activities now take place directly in communities across Leeds.
Services operate in a range of settings beyond our offices, including parks, community venues and partner organisations, including Feel Good Factor, (LS7), The Old Fire Station (LS9) and Jamyang Buddhist Centre (LS11).
This approach enables us to reach people in more accessible, familiar environments.
A long-term, sustainable approach
By reducing our building footprint, Leeds Mind is aiming to make the best use of our resources and ensure we can continue supporting people well into the future.
The move forms part of a broader organisational strategy focused on being present in the places people live and spend time. It’s about delivering flexible, responsive services and maintaining long-term financial sustainability as a local charity.
Continuing support
De Lacey House has been home to Leeds Mind’s WorkPlace Leeds service, which supports people to find and stay in work.
Lucy Hancock, CEO of Leeds Mind, commented: “Selling De Lacey House is part of our ongoing commitment to offering the best mental health support for our communities, be that for the people of Kirkstall or beyond.
“As Leeds Mind continues to evolve, our focus remains on improving mental health and wellbeing across Leeds, ensuring support is available where it is most needed, now and in the future.”
In the immediate future, Leeds Mind and WorkPlace Leeds will continue to operate out of our office in Horsforth as an administrative and central services base, with a few limited services hosted there.
With any questions or feedback, please contact info@leedsmind.org.uk, or call 0113 305 5800 (open Mon-Thurs 9am-5pm, Fridays 9am-4:30pm).
