Adults with learning disabilities at The Apuldram Centre in Chichester are enjoying an improved sensory garden and refurbished communal space after SGN volunteers answered a heartfelt request from one of the company's much-loved retired colleagues to support the charity.
A team of senior managers and frontline colleagues from SGN's Southern Operations and Construction team, based at the Aldershot depot, spent the day transforming the charity's outdoor and indoor spaces as part of the company's Community Action Programme (CAP).
The volunteers weeded, cleared borders, cut hedges, planted new greenery and carried out general maintenance in the centre's sensory garden. They also installed additional fencing around the pond to create a safer, more welcoming environment for the adults who use the space. Meanwhile, another group refreshed one of the centre's busiest communal rooms by preparing and repainting it, giving it a bright new lease of life.
The Apuldram Centre supports adults with learning disabilities and their families through supported living, day services and community programmes, helping people lead fulfilling, enjoyable and meaningful lives.
Glenn Norman, Director of Operations (South) at SGN, said: "Supporting local communities is a key part of who we are at SGN, and when one of our much-loved retired colleagues asked if we could support The Apuldram Centre, we were delighted to say yes.
“Through our Community Action Programme, our colleagues have the opportunity to give something back to the communities we serve, and it was a privilege to support a charity that makes such a positive difference to the lives of adults with learning disabilities and their families. We hope the improvements will be enjoyed for many years to come."
Lianne Jones, Operations and Compliance Manager at The Apuldram Centre, said: "The Apuldram Centre, and especially the adults with learning disabilities we support, would like to say a huge thank you to everyone at SGN for their support. Everything we do is focused on helping people lead fulfilling, enjoyable and meaningful lives, and the improvements the team has made will have a real impact on their day-to-day experience.
“By volunteering your time to improve our sensory garden and communal spaces, you have created safe, welcoming places that will be enjoyed for years to come. We know taking time out of a busy working day is no small thing, and we are genuinely touched that you chose to spend that time supporting us."
