Laura Fergusson Trust Inc was established by Lady Laura Fergusson and Lady Mary Caughey in 1967.
“The Laura Fergusson Trust’s primary objective was; “to assist disabled persons in the solution of their residential problems.” The emphasis was on integration of the disabled into the local community, not an inward-looking, self-contained community!”
Lady Fergusson and Lady Caughey had a vision to provide residential accommodation and support to physically disabled people. Simply, they didn’t want to see them end up in rest homes.
For over 50 years, the vision was realised as LFT developed a renowned reputation for its quality rehabilitation services, wonderful skilled staff, unique hydrotherapy pool and gym, support and companionship.
In 2020 it quietly closed, residents were moved out, some to resthomes, The land and buildings were sold to an overseas owner. It came as a shock to many.
In November 2023, a new Board was elected, committed to once again create a modern day version of what the Founder’s envisaged.
We hope you will join us on the journey to recreate Laura Fergusson Auckland.
Young people don’t belong in rest homes.
With the Epsom home now closed and sold there is nowhere for newly disabled people to rehab and transition. Auckland needs a facility to enable newly physically disabled people to learn to live their new life.
Andrew Hall, National Programme Manager NZ Spinal Trust, former CEO and Chair says: “The Auckland region is significantly under resourced with respect to quality rehabilitation services.”
We hope you will join with us to recreate the valuable facility that helped so many people to live more independent lives.
“When I had my life changing accident at 19, I lived at the rehab centre and LFT gave me a new life.” Listen here to this insightful interview with Radio NZ.
https://youtu.be/tuG348okeuQ?si=jLoqjF7lI5X-r4ta
— Sophia Malthus Tetraplegic, pictured at right
LFT’s much used hydrotherapy pool.
Dorothy Dawson, Royal Oak, wrote in a
Letter to the Editor, NZ Herald. 24/12/2020
As a person who has experienced the benefits of the rehabilitation facilities in the gym and hydrotherapy pool at Laura Fergusson Rehabilitation for 10 years, I completely endorse Victoria Carter's comment (NZ Herald, December 21).
There isn't a pool like it in Auckland. The temperature of the water was just right. The long ramp on one side of the pool provided access for wheelchair patients as well as those who had difficulty getting into other pools.
The work of all the therapists was very much appreciated by all who needed it. They were kind, patient and very skilled in their work.
This rehabilitation facility is very much needed here. Please don't let it be dismantled as nothing will replace it. It is a vital asset for Auckland.
We need your Support
Recreating and rebuilding a facility that Laura Fergusson was, is the goal of the new Board. We intend to work with other like-minded individuals and organisations to build a broader wellness hub serving the many communities that are impacted by life changing events.
Contact
Feel free to contact us with any questions.
Email: aucklandadmin@lft.co.nz
Address: Level 2, 2 Owens Road, Epsom.