Feels like a new home

He recalls sitting in his lounge looking at a house that was falling to bits, and asking himself, ‘What can I do?’ His daughter Jane felt determined they would find a solution and after an initial discussion with the trust about what could be achieved, they found a pathway (which luckily), didn’t involve bulldozing the house!

Trevor bought his family home in 1987 whilst working for the railways. But when the roof started to leak and he didn’t have any money to repair it, Trevor had no choice but to live with the problem. To add to this, several lights broke, the electrical system required improvement, and the house was cold and damp. “If you haven’t got the money, you just have to live with it, unless you win Lotto.” Trevor says.

After discussing what was urgently needed, the trust helped Trevor to arrange affordable finance and carry out a series of works. The former roof had major leaks which had lead to damage inside the house, so the trust added a new roof, fixed the electrics, then painted and remodelled the kitchen and bathroom.

For Trevor the change was “unbelievable”. He describes his rejuvenated home, “like a new house.”

With his family home restored it feels like a fresh beginning for Trevor and his children. “Ryhaven Trust has got me to this point. I know people who have had work done and it has cost them a lot.”

Trevor’s project was completed in partnership with local sponsors, Carters Building Supplies and Dulux (see our “Dulux Adds some Shine to Taita Home’ story here). We thank our generous sponsors for their part in helping repair and restore homes in our community.

Photography: Russell Finnerty
Words: Kelly McGuinness
2019