DIY SOS calls upon local tradespeople to help transform young carers’ centre in Blackpool
Published: 31 May, 2016
A ‘DIY SOS Trades Day’ event on Wednesday 8 June hopes to galvanise support from businesses and volunteer trades for DIY SOS, BBC Children in Need special.
Presented by Nick Knowles, DIY SOS: The Big Build, is attempting to take on one of its most ambitious and heartfelt projects to date and needs the help of businesses and volunteer tradespeople from the greater Blackpool area of Lancashire.
The programme is preparing to transform a young carers centre from a run-down, neglected Victorian house, to a fun, safe and supportive environment where young carers are able to enjoy their childhood. The project is being designed by Lawrence Llewellyn-Bowen, who was himself a young carer and will raise money for Children in Need projects across the country.
To achieve this ambition the programme is seeking donations of materials as well as help from tradespeople including; electricians, plumbers, carpenters, plasterers, decorators and landscape gardeners who may be able to offer support.
DIY SOS, build manager, Mark Millar is hosting an all-day event on 8 June at Blenheim House, Blackpool and inviting tradespeople and businesses to assess the task at hand and find out how they can contribute by volunteering as a trade or by donating materials.
The upcoming build dates are 28 June until 7 July 2016 and will help make a difference to Blackpool Carers, a charity which provides emotional and practical support to young carers, some as young as five.
Nick Knowles, presenter of BBC One’s DIY SOS, said: “We know this build will be no mean feat, but these young people are worth it. From skips to bricks, paint to plasterboard and anything in between, we urge businesses to come along to the event and pledge to help in any way they can. Ultimately we hope to change the lives of these young people and deliver the safe and calm environment they deserve – but we can’t do it alone. We need the help of local trades and suppliers.”
Those interested in attending the Trades Day on Wednesday 8 June ahead of the build must contact Lucy Jones before hand for further information by emailing: lucy.jones@bbc.co.uk.
