A group of Paisley Painting and Decorating students have been putting their skills to good use in the local community recently at Renfrewshire’s ACCORD Hospice. ACCORD provides palliative and end of life care to people living with or affected by a life limiting illness in Renfrewshire and parts of East Renfrewshire.

After seeing ACCORD’s social media post reaching out for support to decorate the Hospice’s new Bereavement Hub , the College’s Construction Curriculum Quality Leader, Derek Smillie approached the lecturers and students to find out if they would be keen to support the project.

It was a unanimous yes from the department and they immediately put the wheels into motion to support. Following a visit to the new Causeyside Street premises to assess the scope of works and materials required, the project was set up.

ACCORD Hospice kindly supported in the costs for all materials and kept the students fed and watered providing lunch for the workers. The group of willing Pre-Apprentices and Apprentices, aided by the lecturing staff transformed the premises into a welcoming space for Accord Hospice.

Thanks to the students who supported, James Thomson, Kerry Smith, Kevin Garscadden, Patricia Innes. Ian Risk and Lee Anderson and lecturers Allan Keenan and Gary Hunter.

Derek said,

“It was a pleasure to assist this worthwhile local charity and in turn, give our Pre-Apprenticeship learners on the job training. The learners did a fabulous, professional job, supported by our lecturing staff. The learners gained valuable experience for their portfolio.” 

ACCORD said,

“We are absolutely delighted with our new look premises for the Renfrewshire Bereavement Network, a place you can come to if you are experiencing loss or dealing with grief following the death of someone close to you, you can get support from our network. Creating a warm and welcoming place was something we wanted to achieve, with many thanks to the students from West College Scotland for their professional job. Thanks to everyone for the support of the Hospice and the Renfrewshire Bereavement Network.”