There’s something different about Stockport-based charity Independent Options this week, and it’s all down to Stockport College’s aspiring painters and decorators, who took time out of their busy schedule to give the Children’s Centre a revamp.
One of the leading charities for children and adults with disabilities in Stockport, Independent Options teamed up with Stockport College through Business in the Community, a charity that works to enable businesses to achieve more through collaboration.
Above: Stockport College Painting and Decorating Course Revamp
Independent Options’ Children’s Centre
The second and third year Painting and Decorating students spent time stripping the walls of the Children’s Centre back and giving them a new lease of life. They also painted on a new blackboard and clock to the walls, giving the team an opportunity to apply their studies to a practical setting, while enhancing their experience and practicing a wide range of skills.
Based at the charity’s head office at The Pines on Chester Road, Hazel Grove, the Children’s Centre provides a safe, welcoming environment where children with disabilities or additional needs can have fun and access groups and activities.
Stockport College’s Painting and Decorating Lecturer, Tony Wallace, accompanied the students to Independent Options. He commented:
“Coming out on site is vastly different to being in college for our students, as it gives a true work experience while enhancing their skills. It also shows them why it’s important to help other people and charity organisations, giving them enthusiasm to carry out further projects like this.”
Fundraising Manager, Lucy Sawdon, commented:
“The students from Stockport College have done a fantastic job on the children’s centre, their work is impeccable and all of us at Independent Options are very grateful for all their help. The Children’s Centre is an important part of the service we provide, and the students were mindful of all the different needs of the children who use it.
“We hope that the work they have done here will help their studies and future careers.”
Andrew Deighton, Business Connector for Business in the Community, said
“This is such a great example of two parties from different sectors of Stockport working together with mutual benefits, and is hopefully something that can be extended further in the future.”
Independent Options provides support services to over 600 children and adults with a range of disabilities, while helping to remove the barriers that society places in their way.
The Stockport-based charity aims to empower people with disabilities so that they can take control of their lives, achieve their aspirations, and live life to the full.
Established in 1977, Independent Options prides itself on providing a person-centred approach, giving its users control over the care and support they receive. It works with people who have learning disabilities, mental health needs, autism, acquired brain injuries, and also physical disabilities.
Independent Options offers services such as 24-hour care for people who have complex needs living in their own homes, a thriving Children’s Centre, short breaks for adults, and support for children and young people.
For more information, visit: www.independentoptions.org.uk
For more information on events held by Independent Options, contact the Fundraising Office on 0161 482 7936 or email fundraising@independentoptions.org.uk