Score gets a makeover

Score Community Opportunities’ base in the centre of Hereford has had a summertime makeover, with new carpets and cooker, plus a fresh coat of paint, all thanks to local manufacturer Helping Hand.

Every quarter, Ledbury-based Helping Hand chooses a number of local charities to support with both funding and staff volunteering. Over the summer, after a visit to Score’s offices in Catherine Street, they decided to support only Affinity Trust.

Starting on 20 July, volunteers spent over 500 hours stripping, repairing and repainting the building, often working over the weekend. Volunteers from Helping Hand included Michelle, John and Alan. They were joined by staff, their relatives, and relatives of people supported at Score.

Professional support was brought in where needed. Electricians installed new hand dryers, while professional fitters laid new carpets and non-slip flooring in the staff room, art room and toilets.

The display boards used by people supported by Score were replaced. The art room took on a new lease of life, with new cupboards fitted to hold the materials Score uses weekly.

Generosity

The reception area was de-cluttered and repainted. New blinds were fitted throughout, providing a lighter, more welcoming space. Helping Hand bought new plants for the windows and pots for outside – easier to water and maintain than the original hanging baskets. Finally, Helping Hand bought and installed a new cooker and TV.

The work was all carried out during the two weeks that Score closes over the summer.

Score’s manager Claire Jackson says: “I cannot believe the generosity of Helping Hand. What started as a trip turned into a major refurbishment, and the location looks better than I ever imagined.

“The people we support were excited to return and noticed the change as soon as they walked in. Even the taxi drivers who collect people each day have noticed the brighter reception area.”

Michelle and John from Helping Hand said: “It was our pleasure to help provide a brighter space for the people that come to SCORE.

“When we visited and met some of the people who attend, we knew we could do more to help. Now, knowing how much it has been appreciated makes it even more worthwhile, and knowing the first day it opened there were lots of smiles.”

“It has been our pleasure, and so worthwhile helping a charity that does so much good” – Helping Hand