Regenda Five Give and Gain

Published by Lucy Bradwell for The Regenda Group in Housing and also in Communities, Health

Five energetic volunteers from North West housing provider The Regenda Group helped re-decorate a women’s refuge in Oldham as part of a ‘Give and Gain’ day organised by Business in the Community.

The five women from Regenda helped to create a ‘study zone’ which is a quiet area within the scheme where children can do their homework undisturbed.  The room was clean and tidy but very plain so the team’s task was to brighten it up and add an element of fun.  The walls, doors and shelves were painted with a selection of cheerful eye-popping colours and a funky clock motif was painted onto a large desk.

Amy Taylor, Supported Housing Officer at Regenda said: “Women and children come to the scheme to escape difficult and often harrowing situations.  The refuge provides security for them and offers them a chance to get their life back on track.  It is crucial for the children to continue with their education and so we felt that it was important for us to contribute to the day, to give something back and make sure that the kids have all the comforts of a normal home.”

The Regenda team was joined by volunteers from Lloyds TSB and Irwin Mitchell Solicitors in Manchester to complete the day’s tasks.  By the end of the event the teams had re-decorated a communal lounge within the scheme and created a multi-sensory garden area in the grounds.

The scheme, which is owned by Regenda, provides a refuge for women and children who are fleeing domestic violence and have become homeless.  It provides secure accommodation for up to 20 families for periods ranging from 24 hours to six months. 

Steve Goslyn, Chief Executive of Threshold, which manages the scheme said: "This is the first time Threshold has been involved in Give and Gain and it's been fantastic.  Initiatives such as this are really important to Threshold, and the aspirations and wellbeing of the people with whom we work. Today has made a fantastic difference to this service.   It has greatly improved the living environment and given a real boost to our customers by working alongside such positive teams.  We will definitely do it again" 

Give & Gain Day is a national event where employees are encouraged to volunteer their time and skills during work hours to make a difference to their community.

The Regenda Group is a leading housing and regeneration organisation, with 13,000 properties across the North West providing homes for more than 25,000 people.