Across Dundee and Tayside, many communities face barriers to accessing affordable, inclusive and prevention-focused wellbeing support. Stobswell West in particular experiences:

• High levels of health inequality

• Limited access to community-led preventative services

• Increased social isolation

• Economic disadvantage

• Higher demand on health and social care services

Kanzen for Life identified a need for a dedicated, stable space where individuals and families could access early-intervention programmes that support physical activity, mental health resilience, leadership opportunities and positive social connection.

Without investment, the charity’s ability to scale its growing community work — delivered across schools, community groups and partner organisations — would remain limited.

The £224,000 investment from NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation will support the creation of the Kanzen for Life Centre, enabling:

A Dedicated Wellbeing Space

A safe, inclusive environment for:

• Physical activity

• Mind–body wellbeing programmes

• Skills development

• Leadership pathways

• Social connection

Expanded Community Programmes

More opportunities for:

• Young people

• Older adults

• Families

• People facing disadvantage

• Those seeking preventative support
  
  

Long-Term Community Impact

• A 20-year secured lease ensures stability and sustainability

• Collaboration with award-winning Jon Frullani Architects supports high-quality, community-focused design

• The centre will reduce pressure on health and social care by providing early intervention and prevention-led support

Shelley McCarthy, Charity Chief Officer at NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation, said:
“We believe that strong, healthy communities are built when people have access to spaces that support their wellbeing in a truly holistic way. This project strongly reflects our charitable priorities, and we are delighted to support an initiative that will make a real, lasting difference to people’s lives across Tayside.”

The Kanzen for Life Centre is expected to have a far-reaching impact across Dundee and Tayside by:

Improving Health & Wellbeing

• Increasing access to physical activity

• Supporting mental and emotional wellbeing

• Providing non-clinical, preventative options for those at risk of declining health

Strengthening Community Resilience

• Creating a central hub that brings people together

• Reducing isolation and supporting connection

• Offering opportunities for volunteering, leadership and long-term personal development

Addressing Inequalities

• Providing support in one of Scotland’s most deprived areas

• Ensuring programmes are accessible, inclusive and community-led

Roy O’Kane, Chief Officer of Kanzen for Life, said:
“This support from NHS Tayside Charitable Foundation will be transformational. It validates the importance of prevention-led, community-driven wellbeing and gives us the confidence to move forward at pace. This centre will exist for the people who need it most, now and for generations to come.”