Scheme could helpimprove skills andcreate more jobs

AmicusHorizon’s award winning DIY SOS scheme will be running classes in Rye and Winchelsea throughout the summer.

People will be able to sign up for taster sessions and learn a range of DIY skills including flooring, woodwork and creative painting techniques.

Jennifer Bates, from the housing group, said: “Later in June, DIYSOS will start a five week course, teaching DIY skills and redecorating Rye Bay Football Club at Winchelsea Beach.

“This is a great opportunity to boost your decorating skills and help to redecorate and improve a community building.

“At the end of the five week course you’ll receive a decorating kit and vouchers for a local DIY store.”

Since it started in January 2012, the DIY SOS programme has had 205 participants and improved ten community venues.

DIY SOS has also supported many of the participants to qualify for their Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card and even gain employment.

DIY SOS participant Stuart Bowers, who gained his CSCS card, said: “The course was excellent and I learnt so much.”

AmicusHorizon is a multi award winning housing association in South East England, with 28,000 homes in Kent, Sussex and London.

It provides many homes in the Rye area including at Rye’s Tilling Green and Rye Harbour.

The housing group, whoe origins date back 50 years, currently have 280 new homes on site or in contract to build across the region.

For more information please call AmicusHorizon’s Sussex Community Development Team on: 0800 121 60 60, text: 07971 919167 or email: [email protected]

The DIY SOS scheme is supported by the Big Lottery Fund.