Provost Kenneth Duffy has praised a partnership that has made the Lanarkshire Deaf Hub a safer and more secure place for the local Deaf community.
New security improvements have been completed at the Lanarkshire Deaf Hub in Motherwell through the 'Fortify the Hub' project, a collaborative initiative involving Mears North Lanarkshire. Provost Duffy recently visited the Hub to see the work first-hand.
The project was inspired following a chance conversation at the 2025 Provost Awards. That initial meeting led to discussions with Mears North Lanarkshire about how they could support the Hub and address its security needs.
The Lanarkshire Deaf Hub provides a welcoming space where Deaf and hard-of-hearing people can access information, take part in activities and connect with others in their community through British Sign Language. It also works with schools, health services and local organisations to promote greater understanding and inclusion.
Recognising the importance of the Hub, partners came together to install a new CCTV system, secure door entry and alarm system, helping to improve safety for staff, volunteers, service users and families. The work included donated equipment worth £5,000, along with more than 100 hours of volunteer time from specialist contractors to prepare the building and install the new systems.
Provost Duffy said: "The Lanarkshire Deaf Hub plays such an important role in supporting Deaf and hard-of-hearing people and their families across North Lanarkshire. It's a welcoming place where people feel connected, supported and understood.
"Something as simple as making people feel safer can have a huge impact, and it's fantastic to see organisations coming together to support a valued community resource. I'm especially pleased that this all started with a conversation at the Provost Awards. It shows what can happen when people make connections and work together for the benefit of local communities."
Kirstie Jameson, Customer Success Manager at Mears North Lanarkshire, said: "This project shows what can be achieved when people come together with a shared goal. By working alongside the Hub and our partners, we've been able to create a safer environment that will benefit the Deaf community for years to come."
The new measures give staff and volunteers greater peace of mind, improve safeguarding for visitors and families, and help ensure the Hub can continue providing its vital services.