January 8th 2015

Tools for Self Reliance
Val Bridges

TSR (Tools for Self Reliance) provides work experience and volunteering opportunities for adults with disabilities, health issues and other disadvantages. Volunteers work at their own speed refurbishing old tools which are then donated to projects abroad, or here in Northampton - See more at: tfsrnorthampton.co.uk/home/

Review of the evening
Val Bridges could not attend the meeting so Dave Arnold stood in for her and explained the work that goes on in Clare Street, Northampton. Old tools are refurbished by members of the charity under supervision. The workers are directed to the charity through GPs and hospitals who think the work could help them on their road to recovery, mainly from mental health issues. The tools are sent to Southampton where they are packed into containers for passage to places such as Africa where they are put to good use in communities who are learning to be independent. Fund raising is done locally and there is always room for volunteers in the workshop.

Dave had brought some 'before' and 'after' tools to show us the good work that is done in the workshops.

He also showed us a couple of brief videos which further explained the work in the workshops with comments from the people working there and one showing the tools being used in Africa with the delight on the faces as they received the gifts.

Competition - 'An unusual object' was won with a mounted hip joint second a mini lighter and third a wooden string holder. There were many objects on display for members to handle and discuss their uses.