The HIVE Portsmouth Disability Hub is the city’s dedicated resource centre for residents living with a physical disability or sensory impairment. Based in Cascades Shopping Centre in the city centre, it's a practical, welcoming space where you can get hands-on support, try out equipment, and connect with others.
Find us
We're based in Cascades Shopping Centre, Portsmouth city centre - an accessible, central location that's easy to reach. No appointment necessary.
Unit 48, Cascades Shopping Centre, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, PO1 4RL
Opening times:
Tuesday: 11am- 2pm
Wednesday: 11am – 2pm
Thursday: 11am – 2pm
What we offer
Assistive technology - Try a wide range of equipment before you buy, including magnifiers, speech devices, iPads with accessibility features, and more. Our trained Digital Champions are on hand to give you one-to-one support.
Digital inclusion - Whether you're new to technology or just need a bit of help with a specific task, we can help you build confidence and get online in a way that works for you.
Peer support and social space - The Hub is a safe, friendly space to meet other people, share experiences, and connect with support that's shaped by people who get it.
Scheduled expert monthly drop-ins - from partners such as Advice Portsmouth. View our schedule here.
Who is the Hub for?
The Hub is for adults in Portsmouth living with a physical disability or sensory impairment, whether you're looking for practical help, want to explore what technology could make your life easier, or simply want to know what support is available to you. Carers and microproviders are also welcome.
Built with disabled people, for disabled people
The Hub has been co-produced from the start with disabled residents in Portsmouth. Everything from the physical layout to the services we offer has been shaped by the Portsmouth Disability Advisory Group and other lived experience groups.
Frequently asked questions
Is it free to use the Hub? Yes, completely. All of our services, sessions and support are free of charge.
Do I need to book? No, just come in. The Hub is a drop-in space, so you're welcome to turn up whenever we're open. No appointment needed.
Is the Hub wheelchair accessible? Yes. Accessibility has been central to how the space has been designed, with input from disabled residents at every stage.
Can I bring a carer or support worker with me? Of course. You're welcome to bring whoever you need with you.
Is the Hub just for people with a formal diagnosis? No. You don't need a diagnosis or a referral to use the Hub. If you live with a physical or sensory disability and think we might be able to help, come and see us.
Do you offer one-to-one support or is it group-based? Both. We have trained Digital Champions who can work with you one-to-one, and we also run group workshops and sessions. You can find out what's coming up here: link to separate webpage
What if I'm not sure the Hub is right for me? Come in anyway and have a chat. There's no pressure and no obligation - we're happy to point you in the right direction even if what you need is elsewhere.
Get involved
There are two main ways to get more involved:
Volunteer with us We're always looking for volunteers to help the Hub run and grow. Whether you want to support one-to-one sessions as a Digital Champion, help out at events, or simply be a friendly face for people coming through the door, we'd love to hear from you. You don't need specific qualifications - life experience and a genuine desire to help go a long way.
Email disabilityhub@hiveportsmouth.org.uk or call 023 9400 7124
Join our co-production group 
The Portsmouth Disability Advisory Group continues to shape what the Hub does and how it develops. If you want a say in how disability services in Portsmouth are designed and delivered - not just at the Hub but more broadly across the city – make your voice heard.
Email disability@hiveportsmouth.org.uk or call 023 9400 7124
Our partners
The Hub is stronger because of the organisations we work alongside. Between them, our partners bring specialist expertise, local knowledge and a shared commitment to making Portsmouth more accessible and inclusive.
Portsmouth Disability Advisory Group - A group of disabled residents whose lived experience has shaped the Hub from the ground up, and who continue to influence disability services across the city.
AJM Healthcare - Our equipment repair partner, providing support with wheelchairs and other mobility aids.
Healthwatch Portsmouth - Working alongside the Disability Advisory Group to take the voices of disabled residents directly to commissioners, including on how wheelchair services are designed and funded.
Portsmouth City Council - Close partners in developing inclusive, community-led services across the city
Portsmouth Carers Centre - Supporting carers who use the Hub alongside the people they care for.
With thanks
The Disability Hub wouldn't have been possible without the generous support of the organisations and funders who believed in it from the beginning.
Common Ground Award - Funding through this government initiative helped us make essential improvements to the space, including refurbishment and accessibility adjustments to ensure the Hub is truly welcoming to everyone.
CityFibre Community Fund - A grant of £50,000 from CityFibre has been central to our digital inclusion work, helping fund equipment, staffing, and the workshops and sessions that help disabled residents get online and stay connected.
Comserv – Comserv worked hard to transform the unit into the welcoming space it now is, offering practical help, advice and support.