MSP in a lofty position as he’s given hands-on insight

May 20 2009 by Lynda Nicol, East Kilbride News

MSP in a lofty position as he’s given hands-on insight

LOCAL MSP Andy Kerr forsook the House last week to go to a house in East Kilbride as part of a valuable project.

The Hands on Project provides support to many elderly and infirm people in the community who find it difficult to do odd jobs around the house.

So the MSP found himself in a senior citizen’s house in Lymekilns Road, Stewartfield, last week, helping one of the project’s willing volunteers, Hugh Mullen, to fix a faulty loft ladder.

The householder was delighted to have it operational again.

Later, Andy said that the Hands on Project was a great service and of benefit to many people.

He explained: “The service is supported by many well-qualified and community-spirited volunteers who give their time and effort to those who need their help.

“I know a lot of local people who have benefited from the Hands on Service.

“It helps with many of those small jobs around the house which otherwise might not get done.

“It is a great tribute to all those involved that the service is provided free of charge to people who need it and that the service is carried out by a great band of committed and caring volunteers.”

The Hands on Project, which is funded by South Lanarkshire Council, NHS Lanarkshire and Lloyds TSB Trust, currently has volunteering opportunities for people with do-it-yourself experience or who are interested in energy efficiency.

Anyone who has a few hours to spare during the day each week, has a caring nature and enjoys talking to people, are welcome to apply.

Training and travel expenses are provided and all volunteers undergo a Disclosure Scotland security check.

To volunteer or for more information, call Liz Nelson, volunteer development officer on 01355 806 894.