Thames Valley Police is working with partners as part of a Prince’s Trust programme to help refurbish a housing scheme in MK.
Det Sgt Simon Tyas and Force Planner Kate Thomas are working with Milton Keynes Council and the Prince’s Trust charity to make a number of improvements to Buckland Lodge in Buckland Drive, Netherfield.
They are working on secondment as part of a 12-week placement programme in the community, which will also involve other projects. The programme helps police to engage with the community, enhances partnership working, facilitates engagement with hard-to-reach groups and helps young people to find training and employment.
Det Sgt Tyas, who is an assistant team leader with the programme, said: “We had a fundraising target of £808 with a cake sale, tombola and bag-pack at Morrisons supermarket.
“This money is going towards paying for a refurbishment of Buckland Lodge, including painting communal areas, redecorating some residents’ rooms, varnishing tables, carpet cleaning and gardening.
“It is a satisfying experience which hopefully the residents will benefit from too.”
Project Team Leader Jason Pinnock said: “Week 5 on the Prince's Trust Team Programme and the team is thriving. We have already secured sponsorship from Xscape MK. We exceeded our £500 fundraising target by raising the largest amount in Community Learning Milton Keynes History by reaching £808. Retaining 13 students on the course is also an achievement in itself, comparing to past courses.
“On our Community Project at Buckland Lodge - Sheltered Housing, we plan to paint, refurnish, renovate and supply specific needed items to ensure the residents at the lodge gain as much as possible.
“As team leader on my first team, I am overwhelmed with the students’ work ethic. Each and every team member is improving their personal development, day by day, learning new life skills with much needed confidence boosting.”
