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Community Support for Grandmother & Son
Carolyn Barclay from Margate is a carer for her 12 year old brain damaged grandson James. Carolyn gave up work 10 years ago to be a fulltime carer for James when her son and Grandson lived with her. She sold her family home and moved to a smaller house to pay for the costs incurred by James’ care needs. James has brain damage but is mobile so he is able to run out of the house and onto the road. When he was younger, Carolyn was able to grab him and stop him from running away, but now that he is older she keeps all the doors and windows locked when caring for James. She has been saving for years to erect a fence to allow her grandson to play outside but keep him safe. Her 3 foot fence was inadequate as it was too easy for James to get over. Her plan was to have a 6ft Colourbond fence all around her property. Yvette D’Ath, MP the Federal Member for Petrie asked if East Coast Apprenticeships could help. Within days, a team was at Carolyn’s home and within two days, the fence was completed. Joining the working gang of Leading Hand Tim Stephens and a number of apprentices, was CEO Alan Sparks, Operations Manager Debbie Edwards, Construction Manager James Keightley, the Redcliffe Branch Manager Paul Harris and Field Officer Ray Hamlyn. East Coast Apprenticeships has carried out a range of projects as part of a service to the community. “We were pleased that we could help Carolyn and hope that the new fence gives James more freedom,” said Alan Sparks.
