An increase in the UK’s population size has meant that alternative, suitable housing for disabled, special needs and terminally ill people is restricted. In addition, where treatment cannot take place in the home, hospitals are struggling to cope with the increased demand for bed space.
With four decades of experience within the modular building industry, MPH identified the need for a revolutionary answer to this housing crisis.
Sympathetic to this client group, MPH have developed a self-contained special needs unit to install in the grounds of an existing house, eliminating the need for the client to move to an alternative property. Utilising a purpose designed off-site manufacturing facility ensures that the construction of the modular buildings is markedly faster than a conventional new build.
Jonathan Hunt of MPH notes, “We are aware of the stress and upheaval that moving house can cause. Tenants with a disability or special needs often have no option but to move into accommodation more suited to their needs. Because of the current housing crisis, however, this can mean leaving a familiar community, family and friends, as there are just not enough suitable houses available in many areas. We have provided a quick, no fuss solution to this. Our aim is to maintain the client’s independence and enhance their quality of life whilst in the comfort of their own home”.
Comprising bed and washing facilities, with heat/cool air conditioning and wheelchair access, the units are ‘bolted on’ to the lower level of an existing property. Because all facilities are located on one level, this allows the client to access all amenities and maintain their independence in their own home as far as possible. All units are Building Regulation compliant and conform to the Disabled Discrimination Act.
The use of brick cladding technology ensures that the self-contained special needs units compliment the existing surroundings, whilst remaining environmentally friendly. Added to this, off-site preparation of the modular buildings enables MPH to reduce noise pollution, congestion and carbon emissions. Crucially, the client experiences little disruption whilst works are ongoing.
Jonathan Hunt said, “Green issues are high on our agenda at MPH. With our new self-contained special needs units, we are looking after both the client and the environment”.
The versatility of modular buildings means that they are sustainable, thermally efficient and cost-effective, with no compromise on quality. When no longer required, MPH can simply remove the modular building or relocate the unit to a different premises.