Volunteers from Mitie, the FTSE 250 strategic outsourcing company, have helped transform a new mental health facility in Manchester, opened this month by Coronation Street star, Jennie McAlpine.
The project is part of Mitie’s volunteering month, with different initiatives set up across the UK as a way to engage with and help local communities.
Four volunteers from Mitie’s painting business donated their time, resources and expertise over three days to paint rooms at The Sanctuary in Manchester, an overnight refuge for those suffering mental health problems, run by the charity Self Help Services.
The team worked in partnership with Crown Paints, who donated 50 litres of paint and developed a unique colour scheme for the project.
By combining their expertise, the team successfully created a soothing and welcoming environment that would also stand up to everyday use.
The Sanctuary, which is based at the Kath Locke Big Life Centre, Moss Side, offers a place of safety and support. It is open between 11pm and 9am every night for adults feeling at crisis point and living with difficulties such as panic attacks and depression.
The centre, which is the only one of its kind in the Greater Manchester area, will provide support for over 1,800 people every year, both face-to-face and over the phone.
Jennie McAlpine, known to millions of viewers as Coronation Street’s Fiz, is a well-known supporter of mental health campaigns and opened the centre on 10th September. She said:
“It’s fantastic to see Mitie and Crown Paints support The Sanctuary. The centre will make a huge difference to those in and around Manchester who are experiencing a mental health crisis and need somewhere to turn during the night when they can feel at their worst.”
Stephen Barthorpe, Head of Community Engagement for the Mitie Foundation, said:
“We’ve always believed at Mitie that a sustainable business is a better business. Projects like this show how we can make important contributions to the local communities we are a part of, and have a positive and lasting impact.
Nicky Lidbetter, Chief Officer of Self Help Services, said:
“The Sanctuary marks a milestone in mental health provision for Manchester, and I’m really pleased that Mitie and Crown Paints have helped support it.
“With their support, we’ve succeeded in creating an environment that will benefit visitors to the centre.”
October marks Mitie’s annual volunteering month, during which employees are encouraged to take part in local community projects. Every year Mitie people take part in over 1,000 volunteering days throughout the UK.
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For further information, contact:
Bell Pottinger
Chris Watts
D: +44 20 7861 2859
E: cwatts@bell-pottinger.com
