Parkgate resident Angus Hoban is celebrating being a Leonard Cheshire volunteer for five years by utilising previous life experiences to empower people with disabilities.
Angus has volunteered with disability charity Leonard Cheshire in Glencaple, a small settlement in Dumfries and Galloway. He uses his vast engineering background and knowledge to help local residents build fresh structures in their homes and gardens.
George Halliday is one of the many individuals assisted by Angus and both have collaborated on a number of projects together. Previously, they have worked on bird houses and garden beds, even restoring an old tricycle. Now, they have spread their wings and delved into the challenge of completing a garden shelter.
The shed is a project long overdue for George, with the resident seeking respite to relax independently within the confines of the shared home and shy away from the impending cold in the run-up to Christmas.
Angus and George massively enjoyed this shared project, investing themselves in a challenge that involved first-hand sanding, sawing and painting.
Angus said: “Volunteering is a two-way operation – I support George to do the things he likes while seeing his satisfaction. Leonard Cheshire always encourage individuals to live, learn and work, and they offer great support – such as providing the materials we use.”
With the hut ready for use, a small ceremony at the shared house will showcase the new construction with Angus, George and Leonard Cheshire on hand to present it.
Joan McAlpine MSP, who unveiled the shed, said:
“I’ve always admired the work that Leonard Cheshire and their volunteers do. This is a fantastic example of people coming together to ensure everyone can live independently if they want to. I’m delighted that I have been invited to open the shelter and I’m looking forward to meeting everybody involved in this great project.”
Bill Milven, Volunteer Co-ordinator with Leonard Cheshire in Dumfries, said:
“Angus has great personal and technical skills which is typical of everything we wish for in our volunteers. Our volunteers add so much to the lives of the people that we support and it is exciting to see this project be unveiled to highlight our accomplishments.”
