Iceni Magazine is pleased to support The Benjamin Foundation as our charity of the year and will bring you news and information about this wonderful local charity every month.

The Benjamin Foundation provides a range of services and support to people of all ages who need help at various times in their life.  Through their work in Norfolk and neighbouring counties they give them hope, opportunity, stability and independence.

One of their services is Ben’s Workforce which was set up in May 2015 to help elderly people stay independent in their own home.

What is this service?

Ben’s Workforce is a service for people in North Norfolk aged over 65 who need someone to do small maintenance and repair jobs around the home.  The jobs are carried out by their team of staff and volunteers all of whom are trained and approved.

This unique service is available across all areas of North Norfolk, including Sheringham, Holt, Cromer, Aylsham, North Walsham, Happisburgh, Hoveton, Fakenham, Briston, Cley and Blakeney. Everyone in Ben’s Workforce is skilled to at least a basic level, is friendly and DBS checked.

The aim is to enable older people to retain their independence by living at home for longer. Funding is currently being provided by Norfolk County Council.

What type of work can be done?

• Putting up shelves
• Assembling furniture
• Installing pet flaps
• Fitting access ramps
• Installing curtain rails
• Decorating jobs
• Moving heavy furniture
• Fixing dripping taps
• Gardening

Jamie Brown, Manager of Ben’s Workforce, said: “Many basic household jobs can be really challenging for people if they are for any reason not in the best of health, are physically too frail or are simply not confident in carrying them out.  Everyone in Ben’s Workforce has lots of home improvements experience and has had their skills assessed”

Jamie continues: “Ben’s Workforce has been made possible thanks to funding from Norfolk County Council which has helped to set the service up; with premises, a van and staff costs.  In order for the service to be sustainable, each job carries a minimum charge of £20 with each job being priced individually and this charge goes towards the ongoing running costs of the service.”

Please bear in mind this brilliant service if you or a member of your family would like any work doing.  Contact Ben’s workforce to discuss your requirements and they will provide a quote for the work. 

Telephone 01263 826854. 
E mail:  bensworkforce@benjaminfoundation.co.uk
Visit their website benjaminfoundation.co.uk/bensworkforce
Like On Facebook: www.facebook.com/bensworkforce/

Do you have the necessary skills and could you volunteer some time to help?

In order to keep operating, this service needs to recruit more volunteers.  It would be a hugely rewarding scheme to be involved with.  If you have some skills in basic DIY or gardening and some time to spare during the week, please contact Jamie who would love to hear from you.