Kilwinning centre is transforming people's lives

The Dirrans Centre in Kilwinning is helping residents living with different conditions and challenges to transform their lives.

The much-loved centre is run by North Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP) and provides a rehabilitation service for adults with a physical disability, a brain injury and other long-term conditions

It was originally a head injury unit – helping to rehabilitate hundreds of people since first opening in 1996 – but expanded to include reablement services.

Three service users – Jim, Dillon and Sandra – have generously shared their stories about how the staff have helped them to get their lives back on track through rehab workshops including music, cooking, gardening and exercise.

Between them, they have tackled a variety of challenges including isolation, mental health issues and a number of physical conditions over many years.

Now, they say their lives have vastly improved, thanks to the dedication and expertise of the staff and encouragement and support from fellow service users.

They have improved tier physical health, made new friends, reconnected with their local community and now feel much more confident and independent.

Sandra even considers the staff at the centre to be her “wee soul family”.

Since 2015, more than 500 people from across North Ayrshire have been supported in the purpose-built facility in Dirrans Terrace.

Our Council Plan shows how the Council works in partnership to fulfil its aim of ‘A North Ayrshire that is fair for all’.

We want to become a wellbeing economy where we prioritise prosperity, wellbeing and resilience for our local communities.

Wellbeing is at the heart of local life and integral to ‘A North Ayrshire that is fair for all’. That is why our Council is supporting people in our communities on the road to recovery through rehabilitation.

You can hear how life has changed for the better for Jim, Dillon and Sandra by watching our short video.

Published: 12 December 2025