The new Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease at Seacroft Hospital, Leeds, has opened its doors, marking a major milestone in care and research for people living with MND. Designed by Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust in collaboration with patients, clinicians and the wider MND community, the centre provides a purpose-built environment that brings together all MND services under one roof for the first time. Em-B Solutions supplied all of the architectural ironmongery and door hardware for the project, helping to ensure that the centre also delivers both accessibility and safety.
Every aspect of the centre’s design has been shaped around patient comfort, accessibility and dignity. For those living with MND, movement and communication can become increasingly complex, so door hardware plays a key role in maintaining independence and safety. From easy-to-operate handles and carefully calibrated closers to fully accessible automatic systems, the ironmongery package was specified to meet stringent performance and usability standards. Each component contributes to a calm, barrier-free environment where patients, families and clinicians can move easily and safely between therapy rooms, clinical spaces and social areas.
Durability was another essential consideration. The building will be in continuous use by staff, patients, and visitors, so long-life products with low maintenance requirements were chosen to ensure consistent performance over time.
Working with the project team at main contractor I&G Group, Em-B Solutions provided technical guidance throughout the specification and installation process. The company’s long experience in healthcare environments proved invaluable in meeting the specific requirements of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and aligning the hardware schedule with the centre’s accessibility objectives.
This requirement for accessibility, hygiene and durability was all incorporated into the architect’s design vision for the building. Stylish yet simple bespoke black door furniture, made for the project by Instinct Hardware, sets off tall oak veneer doors with large vision panels to let in light. The hardware was all chosen for its quality, designed to be “fit and forget” for maximum robustness, with smooth lines for easy cleaning.
“Being part of this project has meant a great deal to everyone at Em-B,” said Philip Goldberg, joint MD at Em-B Solutions. “The Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease is a project that has touched so many people, not just in Leeds, but across the country nd the whole world. Rob’s story and his determination to improve the lives of others have inspired us all, and we’re so happy to have contributed in a small way to such a meaningful cause.”
The Leeds Hospitals Charity’s fundraising appeal raised £6.8 million to make the centre a reality. As the first purpose-built facility of its kind, it brings together clinical care, research, education and holistic support within a single, fully accessible space. Patients can now access specialist nurses, physiotherapists, speech and language therapists, and nutritionists, all in one location. You can donate to support the ongoing work of the Rob Burrow Centre for MND here.
