On 4th November, Capella, the charity that operates Sleep Action, proudly opened the doors to its new McDonald Road Centre in Edinburgh, marking a major step forward in providing dedicated facilities for its projects. The new space empowers Capella’s mission to help people Be the Best You, and was celebrated with an engaging launch event, bringing together charity supporters, city officials, and community members for a day of speeches, tours, and celebration. 

Capella operates both Teens+ and Sleep Action. Teens+ provides a pathway for young adults with additional needs as they transition from school, helping them develop life skills, independence, and social connections in a supportive environment. Meanwhile, Sleep Action is dedicated to improving sleep health across the UK, acting as a beacon for evidence-based sleep support and advocacy. The McDonald Road Centre brings both of these essential projects together under one roof, providing each with a dedicated space. 

Located in central Edinburgh, the new centre spans two floors, with the Teens+ Edinburgh Centre occupying the ground floor, and Sleep Action and Capella’s headquarters on the first floor. The centralised space at McDonald Road not only brings much-needed office space but also creates a collaborative environment that will fuel new initiatives, enhance service delivery, and foster a sense of unity among Capella’s teams. 

The opening day welcomed guests into the new centre for an afternoon of celebration. The Deputy Lord Provost gave a warm welcome speech, followed by addresses from Simon Pearce-Madge, the head of Teens+, and Alyson O’Brien, head of Sleep Action. Gail Burden, Capella’s CEO, spoke passionately about the charity’s growth and future ambitions, expressing her gratitude for the community’s support in making the centre a reality. In a symbolic moment, the Lord Provost took up the ceremonial scissors to cut the ribbon, officially opening the centre. 

Guests enjoyed delicious food and drink, along with a show-stopping Capella cake. Staff members guided visitors on tours throughout the building, providing a look at the Teens+ centre and the new offices for Capella and Sleep Action. 

For Sleep Action, which has operated remotely since 2020, the new head office is the first physical hub since before the pandemic – a milestone that comes just as they prepare to launch their Sleep-Friendly Employer programme, an initiative designed to support organisations in promoting healthy sleep practices among employees. The centre will make a meaningful difference in Sleep Action’s outreach, as a dedicated base from which to collaborate and plan. 

Now, Capella is better equipped to offer transformative programmes, hold collaborative meetings, and provide welcoming, accessible services. Capella’s new chapter begins here, in a space designed to empower everyone involved to thrive, and to Be the Best You.