Volunteer becomes tenant in Giroscope’s latest makeover
NEW HOME: Paul Firth in Albert Avenue
By Angus Young
The completion of refurbishment work at the latest addition to Hull regeneration charity Giroscope’s housing portfolio has coincided with the start of a year of events to mark the organisation’s 40th anniversary.
Previously derelict, the late Victorian house in Albert Avenue had been given a complete facelift.
Now transformed into a modern six-bedroom property, it will soon become home to former Giroscope volunteer Paul Firth and his extended family.
Project manager Caroline Gore-Booth said: “When we first viewed the house it was in a terrible condition.
KEEPING THE FAMILY TOGETHER: Paul on the doorstep of the six-bedroom property
“There had been a fire in part of the building, there was structural work that needed to be done and no floor in the downstairs living room.
“At the same time, the property had such great potential for Giroscope both as a property to do up, provide training and volunteering experience, but also for a family that would be housed there when the work was finished.
“The house could have easily become an HMO. Instead, we chose to invest in a large family home that supports stability, connection and neighbourhood renewal.
“It’s a fully-renovated six-bedroom property and the quality of the upgrade reflects our commitment to do things properly.”
HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS: The house has been completely refurbished
The makeover includes a new kitchen and bathrooms, internal and external insulation and a range of built-in energy-efficiency measures.
As well as handing him the keys to a new home, Giroscope has also provided support for Paul and his family during a recent bereavement as part of the charity’s wider approach to the community work which goes beyond bricks and mortar.
He first linked up with his future landlord as a volunteer before securing a paid placement during which he developed painting and decorating skills working alongside trainee joiners and plasterers.
He said: “When I was training, under supervision, we were given a whole house to do up. I learned so much from that experience. Having that trust and responsibility meant everything.”
OPENING THE DOOR TO A NEW FUTURE: Paul with the keys to his new home
The placement helped Paul get a full-time job in the caravan industry.
He added: “Giroscope gave me skills, confidence and options. Keeping the family together now means we can support each other. It’s not just about housing, it’s about everything around it.”
The Albert Avenue property lies in Giroscope’s west Hull heartland where it has brought over 100 empty homes back into use over the last four decades, as well as creating a number of new community and commercial spaces.
To mark its anniversary the charity is launching a year-long programme of events, including a regular series of free lunchtime talks at its new St Matthew’s Community Centre, a summer picnic in Wellsted Street park, a one-day conference celebrating its origins and legacy and a 40th anniversary dinner at St Matthew’s in September. There are also plans for an event at Westminster.
Chief executive and co-founder Martin Newman said: “When Giroscope began, our radical idea was simple – neglected buildings and neglected people could be given a future.
“From the earliest days, with a strong DIY ethos, we focused on supporting enterprise and helping people gain skills, confidence and a sense of purpose alongside improving housing and the wider physical environment.
“Over the years we have delivered better homes, commercial places and community spaces but they are only part of the story. The real connections between neighbours, businesses, tenants, volunteers and partners are what makes change stick.
“Now we are bringing this experience into urgent national conversations about policy, social action, climate and democracy. As we celebrate 40 years, we are inviting everyone connected with Giroscope to help shape what comes next.”