Daryl Dampney (right) manager of Parley Golf Centre, and staff from Faithworks Wessex and volunteers.
Having assisted many rough sleepers last winter with its ‘sleepsafe’ initiative, Faithworks Wessex is now supporting them into the world of work.
The organisation’s ‘2nd Half’ project helps clients gain experience and references so it’s easier for them to find employment.
Parley Golf Centre was keen to assist and offered practical work for the volunteers who began by painting part of the extensive driving range.
Such was the success that club manager Daryl Dampney has invited them back to do some more.
Alan Purchase from Faithworks Wessex organised the working opportunities, said: “Sleepsafe ran between October and March.
“Nine churches in Bournemouth provided emergency beds for up to 12 people a night.
“We helped 47 people into permanent accommodation over the winter and now we want to help them find work.
“Jobs like painting, gardening and working in a kitchen or café means they gain experience, but also get references.
“Employers want CVs that show experience, and also references – and this is what we can help provide.
“Without places such as Parley Golf Centre offering the work, we would not be able to help these people into employment.”
Daryl, manager of the centre which has had a £250,000 make-over including a new course, said: “All I did was provide the materials and they came and did a great job.
“Part of our driving range needed brightening up and it certainly looks better. Hopefully they can come back and do some more work.
“Ideally, of course, these volunteers will find permanent work – I’d be happy to recommend them”
Notes to editors:
Parley Golf Centre in Dorset is set within a beautiful 800 acre farming estate next to the River Stour close to Bournemouth Airport.
It is home to the 17th century Parley Manor and to Parley Equestrian Centre. Wildlife includes roe deer, badgers, foxes and a pair of rare Grey Partridges. And you are likely to see a family of alpacas roaming around too!
Parley Golf Centre opened in 1991 as a six-hole course, but quickly expanded to nine holes and a 27-bay, floodlit driving range was added.
The has being transformed into a centre of excellence and has doubled its footprint.
The nine-hole course has been rebuilt with carefully configured tees allowing for a round of 18 with a total distance of 5,111 yards.
There is a huge short-game practice area, bunker practice facility as well as a state-of-the-art indoor coaching centre.
Also available several ‘academy’ holes from 50 – 100 yards. The café-bar remains a popular venue for golfers and non-golfers alike.
Head greenkeeper Ian Noble is assisted by Mark Gregory and John Morey.
Resident professionals include Chris Brook, Marcus Urbye, Andrew Pakes and Peter Thompson.
For more information contact Ed Baker at Deep South Media on 01202 534487 or 07788392965
