NQ Level 5 Painting and Decorating students from City of Glasgow College have helped transform the new premises of Scottish charity More Than Fibro, completing a major refurbishment project at the historic Templeton on the Green, near Glasgow Green.
Working alongside fellow students from the College’s Joinery section, the painting and decorating students spent seven days on site, bringing eight rooms, seven offices and a main reception area up to a high standard and ready for use.
The project came about after Alison Carey, Vice Chair of More Than Fibro, approached the Built Environment team for assistance. The charity had recently secured new premises at Templeton House on Templeton Street but faced financial challenges in preparing the rooms for its work supporting people living with fibromyalgia.
Founded in October 2020, More Than Fibro has grown from a small support group of just 12 members into a nationwide community of more than 14,600 people. It provides advocacy, peer support and resources for people living with fibromyalgia, a chronic condition that can cause widespread pain, severe fatigue and cognitive difficulties.
The partnership offered a practical solution for the charity while giving students the opportunity to put their skills into practice in a real working environment.
Following planning and risk assessments, students took on a wide range of tasks, including preparing and repairing wall surfaces, painting walls and ceilings, and preparing and finishing timber trims and woodwork. Joinery students also helped ensure doors, trims and fixtures were in good condition before the final decorating work was completed.
As well as making a real difference to the charity, the project gave students valuable experience of working on a live commercial site, where they had to meet deadlines, follow health and safety procedures and deliver a professional standard of finish. The work also contributed directly towards their Qualifications Scotland units, forming part of their formal course assessment.
Sharon Turnbull, Founder of More Than Fibro, said:
“We are incredibly grateful for the fantastic work carried out by the City of Glasgow College students. The newly decorated premises provide a warm and welcoming space for our staff, volunteers, and members of the fibromyalgia community, helping us continue to offer vital support services.
“The standard of workmanship has been outstanding, and it has been a pleasure to work in partnership with the College on this project.”
Course lecturers Alan Henderson and Graeme Reid also praised the students for their professionalism, teamwork and commitment throughout the project.
“Our students approached this project with outstanding professionalism from day one. Working within a heritage building to a fixed client deadline requires real discipline, clear communication and pride in your craft.
“The quality of finish across the reception and office suites is exceptional, showcasing both their technical capability and the standard of training delivered here at the College.”
The refurbished premises will provide More Than Fibro with a welcoming base from which to develop its in-person support services, hold volunteer meetings and manage its day-to-day operations.
The project is a great example of how students can use the skills they develop at College to make a positive difference in the wider community, while gaining valuable experience that prepares them for the workplace.