When you walk into the Gympanzees centre, the flooring won’t be the first thing you notice.
But it will shape everything you do.
Every step, every transfer, every movement through the space depends on what’s underfoot. For disabled children and young people, that can mean the difference between navigating a space independently or needing constant support.
That’s why flooring isn’t a finishing detail. It’s fundamental to how the centre works.
A foundation designed around access
Support from Forbo Flooring Systems, a global manufacturer of commercial and residential floor coverings, are helping us ensure every ground floor space in the Gympanzees centre works for a wide range of access needs.
This includes the main activity areas, circulation routes and essential facilities used by everyone who visits.
Different spaces demand different solutions.
Some areas require impact-absorbing surfaces to reduce the risk of injury. Others must support mobility equipment, allowing smooth, stable movement for wheelchair users and walking aids. In quieter rooms, flooring also plays a role in acoustics, helping to create calmer environments for children with sensory sensitivities.
These are not small details. They are the difference between a space that looks accessible and one that actually works.
A partnership built on understanding
We were first introduced to Forbo through Gollop Flooring, who are working in partnership with them on the installation.
From the outset, there was a clear alignment. This is a project where design decisions directly affect how people move, take part and feel in the space.
Members of the Forbo team attended a Gympanzees event and visited the site, where they heard directly from families about the realities of navigating spaces that weren’t built with them in mind.
Seeing that impact first-hand made it clear what this centre will offer, and why it matters.
What this support makes possible
Forbo are providing all flooring systems across the ground floor as part of phase one of the build. Their support comes at a significantly reduced cost, allowing more of our funding to go directly into creating accessible spaces across the centre, from activity rooms to essential facilities used by every family who visits.
Their involvement also goes beyond supply. As part of the partnership, Forbo are developing a case study focused on inclusive design, exploring how flooring choices influence movement, safety and overall experience within the space.
This shared learning helps demonstrate what’s possible when accessibility is built in from the start.
From shared values to practical impact
As Forbo shared:
“We want to support Gympanzees because we have seen first-hand the extraordinary impact their work has on disabled children and their families. What they are creating is far more than a building. It is a safe, inclusive and inspiring space where children can play, exercise, socialise and simply be themselves without barriers.
Their vision recognises a fundamental need that is too often overlooked: accessible, specialist facilities where every child is included, valued and supported.
As flooring specialists, we are particularly passionate about contributing in a practical and meaningful way. Safe, high-quality, accessible flooring is fundamental to creating an environment where children of all abilities can move confidently and securely. We are proud to support this project by supplying the flooring for the new building, helping to create a space that is inclusive, welcoming, and built to last.”
Looking ahead
The Gympanzees centre opens in 2026. When it does, every surface will have been chosen to make the space safer, more accessible and easier to use.
When the environment works, disabled children and young people can take part fully, without needing to adapt or sit on the sidelines.
That’s what this centre is being built to do.
Forbo Flooring Systems are helping us build a space that works for disabled children and young people from the ground up.
About Forbo Flooring Systems
Forbo Flooring Systems are a global manufacturer of commercial and residential floor coverings, with products used in spaces like schools, healthcare settings and public buildings where durability, safety and accessibility are essential.
