Peter's Story

Training and Work Experience Testimonial
Upcycling Course
Resident of Dudley
” With decades of alcoholism, gambling addictions, depression and nihilism I had a lot to recover from.”
I came to Dudley attending a rehabilitation programme and recovery in the area in May 2023. With decades of alcoholism, gambling addictions, depression and nihilism I had a lot to recover from. The treatment program gave me the time to take stock and commit to scratching out a simpler life, not focusing on success or finances, but what makes me content.
One of the support workers happened to come across an upcycling course of which I had expressed interest in. I’d been “the one” in the family that got called upon for all DIY jobs plus I loved practicality and problem solving. My dad was a joiner and the love of working with my hands came from an early age. I contacted Provision House and attended an introductory session.
Nick went through the details, touching on the techniques we would be learning which sounded great. Just being in a workshop in itself is relaxing, a safe space, encouraging creativity, away from society’s troubles is good for the soul, and enriches wellbeing. I wasn’t in the best position financially but that wasn’t a problem and I started the course a soon after.

“Just being in a workshop in itself is relaxing, a safe space, encouraging creativity, away from society’s troubles is good for the soul, and enriches wellbeing”
“The course was fantastic.”
The course was fantastic. Learning new skills as well as progressing existing ones. Due to Provision House having a good donation flow, the pieces of furniture we were able to work on was of a good standard, being able to see through to finished piece.

Whilst at PH I was volunteering in the warehouse helping deliver and collect furniture, and shortly after I was volunteering to repair furniture and up cycle a few pieces. I’d still be helping the cause if it wasn’t for family problems which forced me to relocate. For myself, volunteering is a two-way street.
If you’re considering volunteering choose an organisation like Provision House that have community well-being at the top of their list and have the fortitude and continuing positivity to really make a difference.
“If you’re considering volunteering choose an organisation like Provision House that have community well-being at the top of their list…”

Reinventing myself was and is a sometimes scary and mentally challenging prospect but surrounded and encouraged by such good people helped more than they know.

Provision House (formerly known as Loaves n Fishes) is a Christian charity based in the West Midlands. We are committed to the relief of poverty and all its effects on the people of Sandwell, Dudley and the wider Black Country. We aim to do this by delivering care in the way of furniture, clothes, household items, food and more to help those that need it most. We help them to build a home for themselves and also try to establish links with organisations for their ongoing benefit. Charity No: 1147775
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