Volunteers paint flat

Shop workers joined together to transform a flat for homeless young people managed by Open Door in Livingston.

They created a fresh, colourful and welcoming space and the makeover is one of 50 home projects being supported by B&Q staff nationwide.

Open Door provides temporary accommodation to homeless people aged 1625 from across West Lothian.

They are provided with a key worker and the opportunity to participate in group work. The charity aims to help young people gain the skills they need to live independently in their own tenancy.

The team of staff from B&Q stores across Scotland redecorated the living room, kitchen, ha l l , bedrooms and bathroom with fresh paint, lighting, soft furnishings and shelving to create a homely environment.

Aileen Willmott from Open Door said: “We are overwhelmed with the results of the makeover.

“It makes such a difference to the young people to have a place to live that they feel comfortable and proud to come home to.

“They particularly loved being involved in deciding how their flat was going to look.

“The team brought their home improvement skills and high spirits, which made the whole experience enjoyable for all.”

Chris Devine from B&Q said: “We were honoured to help in any way they could.

“To help mark our 50th anniversary we’ve committed to 50 good home projects to support local charity and community initiatives.

“We’re proud to be able to use our skills to create a good home away from home for those in our community that are most in need.”

The Open Door Accommodation Project is one of 50 local community projects being supported by B&Q in 2019 to help mark its 50th anniversary.

We were overwhelmed with the results of the makeover