Cornwall Community Action Network Apprentices answered the call when Cornwall Deaf Centre set up their DIY Deaf-O-S project to get help with repairs to the Camborne Centre.

The centre had fallen into such a state of disrepair that there was a danger it might have to be closed.  Unable to get help from the BBC DIY S-O-S programme the centre's management team realised they would have to do it themselves and set up the DIY Deaf-O-S project.  The local community responded generously and with the help of materials and skilled labour supplied by local businesses, craftspeople, and CCAN Apprentices, renovations have got underway.

Apprentices employed by DMT's social enterprise partner Cornwall Community Action Network were able to make good use of the skills they have developed through their work and the skills training provided by DMT Business Services to help carry out repairs to Cornwall Deaf Centre and at the same time have gained valuable additional work experience.  They have also had the satisfaction of helping Cornwall Deaf Centre to improve facilities and services for the profoundly deaf and hard of hearing service users of all ages who use the centre in East Charles Street, Camborne.  Kate Ballard-King, a member of the centre's management committee, told the West Briton last week, "Everything has now started.  It's going to be brilliant when it's all finished.  The kindness of strangers has been amazing and heart-touching. We have had builders, roofers, gardeners and apprentices coming forward to offer us their help completely free of charge."

"CCAN is all about helping young people to get into employment and improve their skills while providing services for local communities," said CCAN Director Anne-Marie Slattery.  "A project like this meets with our aims, which is why we're keen to support it."

If you are looking for affordable construction, motor vehicle or IT services and would like to support young people who are getting started in employment and building their skills contact CCAN on 0845 680 6868 and ask for Jackie Ellis, Bill Barker or Anne-Marie Slattery or you can contact CCAN via DMT's website Contact Us form.

If you think you could help Cornwall Deaf Centre complete their renovations by helping with windows, kitchen units, furniture, indoor or outdoor play equipment, or architectural or project management support contact Jackie Goldie, secretary, on 01209 842798 or 07825 136970.

Thanks to the West Briton for permission to use their photograph and article, which you can read here http://www.thisiscornwall.co.uk/DIY-Deaf-O-S-mission-centre-open/story-13609047-detail/story.html or by clicking here.