“Each of us needs to withdraw from the cares which will not withdraw from us. We need hours of aimless wandering or spates of time sitting on park benches, observing the mysterious world of ants and the canopy of treetops.” Maya Angelou
This quote spoke volumes to Qualis’ Handyman Chris Bullock. Every day, he supports those in homes rented from Epping Forest District Council with odd jobs that they otherwise might not be able to carry out.
Recently, he went above and beyond to help the residents at Jubilee Court, restoring a small collection of memorial benches so that once again, residents could sit down and take a moment to reflect or have a chat.
“Over the years a small collection of wooden benches had been purchased at Jubilee Court and plaques put on them in memory of residents who have sadly passed. Not only important as a memorial but also as a place to gather, to rest, to think and to chat,” said Chris.
“Sadly, things wear out and break and despite some well-meaning repairs by other residents, the benches were well passed their best, to the point that in the interests of health and safety, there was discussion about having to remove them and perhaps plant a memorial rose somewhere else.”
Fortunately, Chris was on site at the time and overheard this discussion. He immediately stepped forward and offered to repair and refurbish the benches. The team at Qualis was happy to provide the materials.
The benches were carefully sanded, initially with a harsh grade sandpaper to remove years of weathering and then with a smooth grade for comfort. New sections of timber were shaped and installed where possible, adding to the structure rather than weakening it.
“At this stage several residents had passed by, they were out simply enjoying the fresh air and each stopping to chat about the improvement they saw and how they looked forward to using the refurbished benches,” said Chris.
Once complete, safe and structurally sound, Chris was delighted to see residents once again using the benches.
“Giving both time and support to those in need is an absolute privilege. As we get older, smaller and smaller issues can grow disproportionately bigger and bigger to the point of becoming overwhelming. Often a brief and helpful intervention can relieve concerns and this is the most rewarding aspect of my role, ” he said.
Did you know we offer a free handyman service to eligible Epping Forest District Council tenants?
Our friendly and experienced team is available to help with a variety of jobs in your home, including replacing light bulbs, patch decorating, hanging pictures and building flat-pack furniture.
If you’d like to make an appointment, please contact the Qualis Property Solutions team to book.
The benches before and after:
