Covers helps youngsters construct a future

The Southampton depot of Covers Timber and Builders Merchants, on the Belgrave Industrial Estate, is lending its support to the Skill Quest Trust charity, supporting young and vulnerable adults in the Eastleigh area. The Trust, which has been established for 17 years, has recently launched a new project to turn a derelict garden centre into the Riverside Community Garden. This exciting new initiative will provide practical work experience, and accredited training and qualifications in horticulture, landscaping and construction for young and older learners, greatly enhancing their employment prospects in these sectors. Raw materials are urgently needed to turn this superb vision into reality, especially after the site flooded due to a burst water main. Covers have donated two tonnes of sand towards the cause, which they hope will go a long way towards the renovations. Simon Richards, Depot Manager at Covers Southampton, said: “As a company we have an active Community Support programme and we are delighted to be involved with the Skill Quest Trust’s latest project. The Riverside Community Garden hasn’t had the easiest start, due to the flooding earlier this year, but it will be a valuable addition to the Eastleigh community and we look forward to watching it take shape”. As well as offering all-important life skills, this not-for-profit enterprise also hopes to build a shop to offer low cost fruit and vegetables that have been grown on the site which will be an added benefit to low income families. A tea room and play area are also planned to benefit the wider community.