A cleared path, freshly painted outdoor furniture and a tidier garden can make a real difference to how an outdoor space feels. At one of our supported accommodation services in Newcastle, colleagues from Grainger PLC helped make the gardens a more welcoming place for the people we support to spend time.
Around 15–20 colleagues took part in the company’s second annual volunteering day in partnership with Changing Lives. The day brought the team together to tackle practical jobs, learn about our work and contribute to a service in their local community.
Getting Stuck In
The volunteers spent the day tidying the allotment area, clearing paths and painting outdoor furniture. Their work supported the Changing Lives team’s ongoing efforts to create a relaxing outdoor space for the people who live and work there.
With tools and materials provided, everyone could get involved from the outset. For Grainger, the connection to housing made the experience particularly meaningful.
“It was rewarding to know that our efforts made a genuine difference to the local community, particularly as Changing Lives operates in a similar area to Grainger and works closely with individuals in housing-related services.”
A Space for Residents to Enjoy
For people living in supported accommodation, the outdoor areas are part of their home. Looking after these shared spaces helps make them more pleasant places to spend time, whether residents are enjoying the garden or taking a moment to relax outside.
The Changing Lives team reported that the work helped residents enjoy the grounds and benefited staff too. Both residents and colleagues expressed their appreciation after the volunteering day.
“Both the residents and staff commented after the garden volunteering day that they really appreciated the work that had taken place, and the volunteers were able to gain a greater understanding of ourselves as a project, an organisation, and the support services that we provide.” — Caroline Garvie, Senior Support Worker
