Ready, steady, decorate

Published by keeley for Longhurst Group in Housing and also in Communities

Move over 60 Minute Makeover and DIY SOS. Tenants and staff of the L&H Homes STEPS and HARP projects have turned into budding Sarah Beeny’s and Nick Knowles’ to transform their beige boudoirs into homes fit to live in rather than just exist in.

The redecorating initiative started in response to feedback from tenants who said they wanted something more than just four walls and a roof over their head in the L&H Homes’ schemes which provide short term accommodation (for 16-20 weeks) for people facing homelessness or who are currently homeless.

Together with Supported Housing staff, tenants were consulted about what they would like to see in their properties. Pictures, feature walls, new colour schemes, dining furniture and cushions were all popular ideas.

Once the plans were in place, the transformation began. Tenants, supervised and assisted by staff, donned their overalls and turned basic accommodation into homes truly fit for living and working in. Living rooms, which were rarely used, were turned into places where tenants could socialise; kitchens became an environment where staff and tenants could make and enjoy tasty meals.

Tim Bray, L&H Homes Supported Housing Manager said, “We are already seeing that the redecorating scheme is paying dividends – the amount of damage to properties has reduced and getting the staff involved has made us more visible to our neighbours which has created a renewed sense of community spirit.”

Tenants Ricky and Peter were really pleased with the results of their labour. Ricky commented, “Boredom is a real killer and being able to take part in painting the house has given us a reason to get up and do something useful.”

Pete added, “It was really good to be involved in this fantastic project. It was a good laugh and the results are great.”

Pictured is Keith, a resident, who is making his mark with some fantastic artwork.