mhs homes recently partnered with building contractors, Niblock, on a social value initiative to provide free works, including installing a new defibrillator, to a local community hub in Chatham.
Teams from mhs homes and Niblock Electrical Services came together to undertake various works at The NET Community Hub – a not-for-profit charity established to support the needs of vulnerable residents, specifically in Weedswood and the immediate surrounding area of Walderslade.
Niblock installed a brand new defibrillator on the outside of the community hub building, whilst mhs homes staff replaced office lighting and conducted a full fire alarm service. There are further works planned to improve the hub in the short term, including IT upgrades and more.
Originally developed from an mhs homes online initiative for young people, and grown via the Medway Youth Service, the community hub now offers space for groups, individuals and specialist training or service agencies.
The charity’s main goal is to benefit vulnerable Walderslade residents, with a particular emphasis on people who are elderly or isolated, by providing inclusive recreational opportunities to improve their health and wellbeing and reduce social isolation.
Damian Morrison, who organised the works and is an Electrical Qualifying Supervisor at mhs homes, said: “It was nice being able to give something back to the community. There are very few defibrillators in the area and, while I hope it’s not needed, it could make a huge difference by enabling someone to get the help they need in those vital minutes until emergency services arrive.”
Stuart Gibson, Divisional Manager at Niblock Electrical Services, added: “At Niblock we are committed to supporting the local communities in which we work. We were pleased to facilitate the installation of the defibrillator at the local community hub. This life-saving device can provide critical support during unforeseen circumstances, and we are proud to have partnered with mhs homes to enhance the safety and wellbeing of the residents.”