A Royal visit was enjoyed by everyone at The Beehive, the adult therapy and activity centre run by Diverse Abilities, in celebration of the charity’s Splash Appeal.

His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent KG visited on Wednesday 7 June for a tour of the centre, and met invited guests, staff, and students at The Beehive. 

The Duke of Kent is the Royal patron of The Splash Appeal, the charity’s capital appeal to build a therapy pool especially for adults with profound and life-long disabilities in Dorset. His Royal Highness was given a tour of the centre and viewed newly approved plans for the life-changing pool.

The Duke took the opportunity to engage with the people supported at the centre, hearing about the activities they were taking part in including Father’s Day crafts, baking in the specialist training kitchen, and taking part in physiotherapy sessions. 

Helen Mortimer, head of fundraising at Diverse Abilities, commented: “It was an honour to welcome the Duke of Kent to The Beehive as the royal patron of the Splash Appeal.  It was wonderful to hear how supportive he is of our plans for the therapy pool and the extensive benefits it will have.” 

Chelsey Mills, manager at The Beehive, added: “The students at The Beehive were really excited to meet The Duke, and the experience really lived up to their expectations. They had a great time showing him what they get up to and were thrilled to see him unveil the commemorative plaque.” 

The Beehive supports 50 adults living with physical and learning disabilities, with conditions including Cerebral Palsy, epilepsy, chromosomal disorders, undiagnosed syndromes, and complex and multiple learning disabilities.  At the centre they are able to enjoy life enriching activities and much-needed therapy; once built the new therapy pool will provide immense benefits to their physical and emotional wellbeing.

Find out more about The Splash Appeal and how you can get involved at thesplashappeal.org.uk, or visit diverseabilities.org.uk to find out more about Diverse Abilities and the services it provides.