Launceston Paint Shop Donates To Community Money Advice Charity

A back office at a Launceston debt advice charity is about to become something far more useful than a storage space, and it’s all down to a local paint shop owner picking up the phone.

A Boardroom With A Bigger Purpose

Community Money Advice Launceston has been working out of new offices at Sheers Barton, just off the B3362, and the team has had its eye on the boardroom at the back of the unit. The plan is to redecorate it white so it matches the rest of the space, creates a brighter environment for form filling, and crucially allows volunteers to project forms and online details straight onto the walls. That projection trick means clients with sight difficulties will be able to see paperwork at a much larger size.

The white walls will also make the room feel more welcoming for people walking in during what is often a stressful moment in their lives.

The Local Business Stepping In

Painters Paradise in Launceston, owned by Dan Peacock, has donated the white paint needed to get the job done.

Dan said: “As an independently owned family business, Painters Paradise are happy to support the cause to help brighten up our local area. We believe a good coat of quality paint can really lift the mood of the people who visit so we are happy to help.”

How The Donation Came About

The connection was made by Gemma Massey, Centre Administrator at Community Advice Launceston, who reached out to Dan directly after taking on her new role with the charity.

Gemma said: “Since starting my new role within the charity, I knew there were ways my other roles outside of CMA could help. I had no hesitation in contacting Dan of Painters Paradise, to see if he could support us. He was so quick to reply and did not hesitate to offer us a kind donation of white paint. CMA has seen a continued increase for the need of our support services, any extra space we have available to help our clients in a safe, secure and private environment the better. This kind gesture really will benefit our clients and volunteers. Allowing for another private meeting room, to be better utilised for those who need our free services. Thank you Dan!”

Nigel Parker, Chair of CMA Trustees, added: “Help like this, within our community, demonstrates another of the many ways we can help each other. The end result will reinforce CMAL’s commitment to ensure our clients, many in very vulnerable situations, can discuss their extremely sensitive situations, in a warm and confidential environment.”

What Happens Next

The redecoration will be carried out by CMA’s own volunteers. Once it’s done, the extra room will give the charity another private space to meet clients who need help with financial and budgeting support, form filling, and benefit applications.