Young people in Castle Point learn trade skills at The Paddocks Centre
As part of the refurbishment of The Paddocks Centre, Castle Point Borough Council has partnered with VIY (Volunteer It Yourself) and Dulux to offer local young people the opportunity to learn essential trade skills.
VIY works with young people who are disadvantaged or excluded from mainstream education and training and are at risk of unemployment. They are mentored by professional tradespeople and can access Entry Level 3 City & Guilds trade skills qualifications and further training or employment.
The partnership offers fantastic opportunities for young people to develop new skills while contributing to a valuable community asset in Castle Point. Around 20 young people from Castle Point will be taking part as they work towards a City & Guilds qualification in painting and decorating.
The project is part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund administered through Castle Point Borough Council with match funding from Dulux and the Essex Community Foundation.
Dulux also supported through the donation of paint and materials, bringing with them volunteers to support the project and providing colour consultation from their Colour Experts.
Cllr Tom Gibson, Cabinet Member for Special Projects and Asset said: "We are thrilled to be partnering with VIY and Dulux on the Paddocks Community Centre project. This collaboration provides a unique opportunity for local young people to gain valuable trade skills, contribute to their community, and work towards recognised qualifications. It's inspiring to see the dedication and enthusiasm of these young individuals as they help transform the Centre into a vibrant community asset.”
Ed Sellwood, COO and Co-Founder of VIY, said: “We’re delighted to have worked with a range of cross-sector partners here on Canvey Island, expanding our reach and impact across the East of England and Essex, from Castle Point Borough Council, to Essex Community Foundation and our National Partners at Dulux. The aims of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund in particular mirror those of our mission here at VIY; providing valuable opportunity to improve pride in place in Castle Point, by transforming community places and spaces in areas most in need, and increasing life chances by boosting skills and employability amongst local young people volunteering on these projects.”
Becky Orton, Dulux Marketing Manager said: “Our partnership with VIY exemplifies our commitment to the Dulux Let’s Colour program. This initiative not only infuses colour into communities but also transforms spaces into vibrant, welcoming environments, enhancing the lives of those who use them. Together, we are not merely painting walls; we are fostering brighter futures and more vibrant communities. This commitment is showcased at The Paddocks Community Centre, where our Dulux Sales & Marketing teams have come together to volunteer their time, decorating many of the areas to brighten the centre. We’re also grateful to have Martha Dunican support as one of our Dulux Commercial Colour Designers, whose expertise and tailored colour & design solutions have been invaluable in enhancing the project’s success. By sharing our colour knowledge and industry-leading products, we aim to help businesses create inspiring and functional spaces that leave a positive impact for years to come."
The Paddocks Centre is due to re-open on 31 March following a £2.3 million renovation.