Local residents test out their DIY skills

Published by Craig Downs for Keepmoat in Housing and also in Communities, Education

Local residents from a Southwark housing estate have been taught the necessary skills to carry out small DIY jobs around their house thanks to a local contractor.

Apollo, now part of housing and regeneration specialist Keepmoat following a merger earlier this year, held a free DIY training day for residents living on the Sceaux Gardens Estate in Southwark to teach them useful DIY tasks such as tiling, painting, plumbing and wallpapering.

The event, which was held last month, was organised by Keepmoat’s Community Investment Officers, Patrick Warren and his brother, Edward who set up stands within the local community centre on the estate.  It follows the success of a recent Back to Work training session where five free training sessions were provided for residents on the estate to help improve their CV’s and chances of finding employment.

Short demonstrations were given at each stand on how to perform the tasks and members of staff from Keepmoat supervised residents whilst they carried out the tasks themselves. Staff also provided handy tips and hints to make it easier for the residents, when attempting the same tasks at home.

Local resident, Sue Elvidge from the Marie Curie block at Sceaux Gardens Estate said: “The day has been very helpful and has given me the confidence to try small DIY tasks at home. I would like to thank Keepmoat and I’m pleased I came. ”

Patrick Warren commented, “I’m so pleased that the residents enjoyed themselves whilst at the same time learning lots of new valuable skills.

“It was also good to see Southwark Council’s Resident Involvement Officer attending so that she could see first-hand what good work we’re delivering within the community.”

Keepmoat supplied all the materials and tools for the day and also provided lunch for the residents. A raffle was organised for residents to win a brand new tool kit which was also kindly donated by Keepmoat.

Keepmoat is currently working in the Southwark area undertaking refurbishment works in partnership with Southwark Council.