Grange Valley brings vital day opportunities closer to home
A St Helens Borough Council service supporting adults with a range of disabilities has celebrated the official opening of Grange Valley Day Opportunities in Haydock, bringing vital support closer to home for residents in the north of the borough.
Article date: 15 October 2026
Part of the council's Adult Social Care offer, Day Opportunities supports 78 people referred to the service, providing a wide range of activities designed to promote wellbeing, independence and the development of new skills.
The centre is based on Clipsley Lane and offers activities ranging from woodwork and horticulture to flower arranging, as well as opportunities focused on lifelong learning, independent living skills and employment though the council's supported internship programme.
With a number of people who use Day Opportunities living in the north of the borough, the Grange Valley hub provides a more convenient and familiar setting, helping to reduce the time and distance they need to travel to access support.
Service users, staff and guests came together to mark the official opening, enjoying refreshments and homemade cakes alongside performances from Haydock Brass Band, which also uses the centre for rehearsals.
Craig, 35, from Parr, has regularly attended Day Opportunities for a number of years.
"It's a great opportunity for me to be here," said Craig. "I enjoy playing air hockey, watching films - everything about it. It's just a wonderful place and I've had a great day watching the brass band, who were excellent."
Councillor Eileen Fleming, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, helped cut the ribbon and joined service users for a dance during the celebrations.
Councillor Fleming said:
"It's a real pleasure to visit this fantastic service and see first-hand what it means to the people who use it.
"Supporting some of the most vulnerable people in our communities is at the heart of our adult social care offer. Our approach as a council is very much 'with you, for you', working alongside people to help them develop skills, build independence, enjoy new experiences and connect with others.
"By officially opening Grange Valley Day Opportunities, we're bringing that support closer to home for people living in the north of the borough, providing activities in a welcoming and familiar environment."
For more information on Day Opportunities, visit: https://www.sthelens.gov.uk/adults
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