Law firm brushes up for Cares challenge at Leonard Cheshire

Ten volunteers from the Leicester office of law firm Weightmans spent a day using paint, rollers and brushes to freshen up several rooms at the Leonard Cheshire Disability Centre in Sileby.

The Challenge, set up by Leicestershire Cares, saw the volunteers decorate the reception, conference room and living room. The Centre is home for up to 17 adults with learning and physical disabilities.

The reception is also now home to a wooden picture frame erected by local builder Richard Rhodes. Works of art created by the residents will be displayed in the frame.

Alison Wright, a solicitor at Weightmans, organised the Challenge team of volunteers from the law firm. She said: “Everyone had a really good time. We hope the residents and staff enjoy the results, and that the conference room will be popular and help generate some income from being hired out.”

Leonard Cheshire Disability volunteer co-ordinator Claire McLeod said: “The hard work by Weightmans has made a real difference and had a big impact. The home now looks bright, fresh and modern. The rejuvenated areas are now being used to their full potential by everyone. Another important part of the project was the social interaction between the residents and the volunteers and many new friendships were formed. Many thanks to Weightmans and Leicestershire cares.

The Weightmans volunteers came from across the teams at the law firm, and included lawyers and support staff. Weightmans staff members also volunteer each year to do the Christmas decorations at Leonard Cheshire in Sileby.

Leicestershire Cares brings businesses together with community groups and charities that need their support and help. Katharine Lightbown, Community Development Coordinator at Leicestershire Cares, said: “We have lots more challenges for businesses, please do get in touch to see how you could help.”