Shanti Bee CIC is a trauma-informed wellbeing centre in East Newcastle, supporting the wellbeing of adults aged 20+, including people living with chronic illness, anxiety, and other long-term health conditions. The centre delivers more than 20 weekly yoga, meditation, and holistic health classes, creating a welcoming space that promotes restoration, connection, and community wellbeing. It also works with self-employed practitioners who provide services at Shanti Bee and across the North East.

To maintain a safe, inclusive environment, the centre needs to replace its broken blinds and outdated external signage. The existing white plastic blinds in the main activity room no longer function properly, making it difficult to control privacy and natural light. This affects the calm atmosphere that is essential for participants, particularly those attending in vulnerable or anxious states. Replacing them with durable wooden Venetian blinds will improve privacy, ease of use, and complement the warm, natural feel of the space.

The current outdoor sign is an old council noticeboard that often makes the centre appear closed. Information displayed there fades quickly and does not reflect the welcoming, vibrant nature of Shanti Bee or its busy programme. Many participants rely on physical information rather than online updates, so new signage is essential to help visitors find the centre and feel confident entering. A new information panel on the front door will also provide clear, respectful guidance for visitors.

The project will be delivered by local businesses, Hopper Signs and A1 Blinds, with installation scheduled between classes to minimise disruption. Completion is expected within two months.

These improvements will create a more welcoming, professional, and accessible environment, increasing privacy, improving communication, enhancing the visitor experience, and strengthening Shanti Bee CIC's ability to provide a safe, restorative space for the local community.