Children at Coalbrookdale and Ironbridge CofE Primary School are enjoying a bright new library after Housing Plus Group worked with local partners and volunteers to transform the space.
The project began after Friends of Coalbrookdale Parent Teacher Association (PTA) wanted to refresh the school’s library and create a welcoming place where children can discover a love of reading.
Housing Plus Group brought together colleagues, contractors and local business partners to complete the refurbishment.
Volunteers from Housing Plus Group, Jewson and Ideal Flooring gave up their time to replaster and decorate the room, install new carpet and create a fresh, inviting space for pupils to enjoy.
Pupils will also help shape the library by choosing the books and resources they would like to see on the shelves.
Mandy Dhaliwal, Headteacher at Coalbrookdale and Ironbridge CofE Primary School, said: “We are absolutely delighted with our newly transformed school library. A huge amount of preparation, planning and hard work took place over the summer holidays to make this possible and I am incredibly grateful to the wonderful team of volunteers who generously gave up their own time to create such a special space for our children.
“The transformation is fantastic. With freshly painted walls, new carpet and a bright, welcoming feel, the library has been given a completely new lease of life. The best response has been from the children themselves, who have already been telling us how excited they are to spend time in there, explore the books and enjoy choosing their next read.”
Sam Hine, Social Value and Inclusion Manager at Housing Plus Group, said: “Reading helps children build confidence, develop their imagination and discover new opportunities.
“We’re proud to have worked alongside our partners and volunteers to create a space where pupils can enjoy picking up a book and discovering something new.
“This project is a great example of what can be achieved when local organisations come together to support their community. We’d like to thank everyone who gave their time, skills and support to make it happen.”
Chris Farmer, Branch Manager for Jewson Partnership Solutions, said: “It’s great to see the material we provided put to such good use and for a great cause, giving pupils a fresh new space to learn. Social value is at the heart of what we do along with Housing Plus Group, helping make our communities a better place for everyone.”
Housing Plus Group provides its employees with two days a year to volunteer for good causes that benefit local communities.
The organisation’s community fund is delivered in partnership with Jewson and Efficiency East Midlands Limited (EEM) and supports grass-roots organisations in Staffordshire, Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin. Local charities and voluntary groups can apply for grants online at: housingplusgroup.co.uk/contact/my-community-fund/