Our key aim is to develop a centre where people can meet to work together to restore the Trusts historic buildings and exhibits. To achieve this, we rely on volunteer from a range of socio-economic backgrounds. However, we have made a particular effort to attract those who have limited financial resources and whose health and general circumstances make it difficult for them to access and integrate with the wider community. To this end we have engaged with local health and social care bodies including local medical practices, mental and occupational health professionals, and the local agencies responsible for refugees and asylum seekers to offer their clients a place to engage in an element of physical activity commensurate with their ability, and to learn or maintain skills which could assist them in moving into employment. We have learned from these agencies that one specific point of contact with us would be preferred and our request for funding would permit us to fund a role on a part time basis to establish proactive relationships with key partners and meet with potential volunteers, understanding their abilities and limitations and provide examples of the types of activities and social arrangements available and which meet their objectives.
