A fresh coat of paint has given many older and vulnerable residents a reason to smile, thanks to Peabody Trust's painting and decorating apprenticeship programme for unemployed members of the community.
The apprentices, aged 18-38 years, receive a college qualification and on the job experience while their customers, who are unable to decorate their homes themselves, have a room of their choice made-over.
Three new trainees have just been recruited to decorate homes on Peabody estates throughout Wandsworth. This service is the first in what the Trust hopes to be a series of schemes London-wide. Peabody residents are encouraged to apply for future programmes.
Painting and Decorating Supervisor, Bill Sanders said: "This scheme has made a huge difference to the lives of Wandsworth's older and vulnerable residents, some of whom have not had any part of their home re-decorated in years.
"The programme also means a great deal to the three apprentices. They each came to me, not knowing anything about painting and decorating and in just a few weeks they have exceeded my expectations. I've seen painters and decorators who have been in the trade for many years and these apprentices are already up to their standard. I am very proud of all of them."
Head of Community Initiatives, Veronica Kirwan said: "This scheme facilitates friendships between the two groups of residents who will benefit from the programme. We hope to expand the job prospects of our unemployed residents, brighten the homes of our older and less able residents, and of course promote a greater sense of community."
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For more press information please contact Peabody Trust's Media Relations Officer, Yasmin Noone, on (020) 70214210 or via email.
