The kitchen and lounge area in our four-bedded unit has undergone a complete refurbishment. The Transitional Living Unit (TLU) is a vital part of the facility, comprising four large bedrooms and a fully accessible shared kitchen and lounge/gaming area. Clients use the TLU to practise everyday living skills, including cooking and meal preparation, as part of their rehabilitation programme. This helps to build independence and prepare   them for the transition home.

The space also provides a comfortable environment to relax and unwind at the end of the day, whether preparing meals, watching TV or playing video games, supporting a more typical daily routine while living at STEPS.

A redesigned accessible kitchen space

At the heart of the refurbishment is a newly fitted accessible kitchen, supplied by Freedom by Symphony, in partnership with leading accessible kitchen designer and wheelchair user, Adam Thomas to create a space that is both stylish and empowering.

Working closely with Adam and the team at Symphony, we designed a kitchen that will suit clients living with a wide range of different disabilities. The space is an important rehabilitation tool. The sage green finish of the kitchen cabinets was chosen to create a calm, homely feel, and the stunning fabric on the armchairs gives the room a vibrant injection of colour and luxury, all carefully chosen to reflect our commitment to create a warm and welcoming environment throughout the facility. 

A Kitchen Designed as a Rehabilitation Tool 

Occupational therapy sessions regularly take place within the Transitional Living Unit, with the refurbished kitchen providing the perfect environment for this work. As part of each rehabilitation programme, occupational therapy plays a crucial role in rebuilding independence in meaningful everyday activities, including cooking, self-care, managing routines, and participating in leisure or work. 

The updated space provides a setting where clients can safely develop and practise essential life skills It enables both structured therapy sessions and independent use.

Key features of the new kitchen include: 

  • A rise-and-fall electric worktop system allows height adjustment at the touch of a button, with integrated safety-stop mechanisms for added protection. The central peninsular unit can be adjusted to suit individual needs, enabling comfortable use whether standing or seated and ensures full wheelchair access. The decision to include this in the new kitchen was an easy one as it really enhances the homely feel but also the flexible worktop space several people can use at the same time. 
  • Electrically operated drop-down wall cabinets bring contents safely within reach, while pull-down basket systems ensure that tall and wall units are accessible to all users. Two designs of drop-down cupboards are included: one features a full cupboard system that lowers as a single unit at the touch of a button, while the other uses a rack mechanism that can be pulled down to bring stored items to a more accessible level. 
  • The oven can be operated via a touch-screen interface, with an optional Home Connect app-based system. It also features a Twist Pad® — a removable magnetic control dial designed for light-touch operation, making it suitable for users with reduced hand function and allowing them to practise and operate appliances more easily. A heatproof pull-out shelf is positioned beneath the oven.
  • Pull-and-twist larder units are designed so that contents rotate into view and remain accessible from a single position. For individuals with a spinal cord injury, traditional larders often require twisting, bending, or reaching into deep or high storage areas, which can be difficult, unsafe, or not possible depending on functional ability.  For individuals with an upper limb amputation, tasks such as carrying items, stabilising shelves, or reaching into deep storage can also present challenges. The rotating mechanism enables items to be accessed using one hand or adapted techniques, without the need to brace or steady oneself awkwardly.  
  • The microwave can be operated via the Home Connect app, enabling users to control it remotely and adjust settings with ease. It also features light-touch controls, making it accessible for individuals with limited hand function.  
  • The Zip tap and sink system provides instant hot and boiling water, removing the need for a kettle. This reduces the need for lifting, carrying, and pouring hot water, helping to minimise the risk of burns and spills. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with reduced mobility and reduces the requirement for fine motor control and strength when lifting and pouring, supporting safer and more independent kitchen use.  

Adaptive Kitchen Equipment to Support Independence 

The OT team have carefully selected a range of specialist kitchen gadgets and adaptive equipment designed to support individuals with reduced hand function and promote greater independence in food preparation. 

A homely and empowering environment 

As a residential rehabilitation facility, STEPS provides a structured, supportive environment where clients live on site and receive 24-hour specialist rehabilitation.  

“Our aim at STEPS has always been to create an environment that feels as close to home as possible while providing expert rehabilitation. This refurbishment reflects that vision, giving clients a space they can enjoy and use to regain independence, and prepare for life beyond STEPS.”  
– Jules Shiel-Boulger, Founder & Business Development Director