Division News: Facilities, Repair & Maintenance

Our Facilities, Repair and Maintenance Division have been busy carrying out essential maintenance and repair work at Yarborough and Birchwood Leisure Centres in Lincoln. We’re proud to be playing a part in preparing both facilities for their next chapter, ensuring everything is in top condition ahead of a new operator taking over.

While the City of Lincoln Council continues the process of selecting the new operator, we’re doing our bit behind the scenes to make sure the centres are ready to welcome the community back – just in time for the summer school holidays!

Thank you to everyone involved in the project so far. We’ll be sharing more updates as work progresses, but in the meantime, here’s a look at what’s been happening on site.

Staff from the Gelder Group hatched a special surprise when they delivered a cracking treat to homeless people in Lincoln. Contracts Manager Marlow Blonde and Administrator Jade Sanderson, from the Sturton by Stow group, visited Framework’s Corner House service in the city, laden down with chocolate eggs ahead of the holiday weekend.

The pair, who were warmly welcomed, had the chance to meet some of the residents and take a tour of the building. They were able to see a typical service user’s flat, as well the building’s shared communal areas.

Mr Blond said: “It was really interesting to see inside the rooms and find out about the  extensive level of care Framework gives to its residents. We were also really pleased to handover the chocolates.”

Gayle Smith, Service Manager for Framework’s Complex Needs service in Lincoln said: “At Corner House we offer accommodation and support to 15 homeless people who have complex and multiple needs. We were delighted to receive the Easter eggs. Giving our service users a treat really means a lot, so thank you and a Happy Easter to everyone at the Gelder Group.”

On any one night Framework provides supported accommodation to more than 1,300 homeless people, including nearly 100 in Lincoln. Every year Framework provides housing, health, employment and support services to more than 18,000 people across Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Sheffield.

Framework’s Communications and PR Manager Chris Senior said: “We greatly appreciate the ongoing support and personal commitment to our work from staff at the Gelder Group. These Easter gifts are much appreciated as is the generous in-kind support to give our service users better access to digital communication. However, this is just one aspect of Framework’s relationship with the Gelder Group. Later in the year we look forward to celebrating the opening of our major new accommodation service for homeless people in Lincoln, which the Gelder Group has developed for us.”

(Back Left to Right): Gelder Group Contracts Manager Marlow Blonde, Gelder Administrator Jade Sanderson,
Corner House Team Leader Megan Morrison and resident Stuart Smith (Front Left to Right): Support Worker James McFetridge, Geoff the dog and Service Manager Gayle Smith

The Facilities, Repair, and Maintenance Division at Gelder Group has demonstrated its commitment to community social values by funding two seasonal sessions at Wild in the Woods for pupils from St Lawrence School, Horncastle. These nature-based sessions focus on connecting children with the outdoors through wildlife exploration, bushcraft skills, woodland adventures, and playful curiosity.

Mr. Martin Chatterton, Assistant Headmaster at St Lawrence School, expressed gratitude for the initiative, stating, “I would like to say a huge thank you to all at Gelders for funding two sessions at Wild in the Woods. We were able to bring 8 students from our school with a variety of needs. They enjoyed the freedom of exploring outside and in particular the opportunities to try and catch some fish!”

Over the course of two days, students learned essential bushcraft skills such as campfire cooking, fishing, wood chopping, and even enjoyed peaceful moments in the hideout.

Mr. Chatterton added “Without your kind support we wouldn’t have been able to give the group experiences beyond the classroom.”

The initiative underscores Gelder Group’s ongoing commitment to fostering community engagement and enriching educational opportunities through meaningful outdoor experiences.

At the Gelder Group we take great pride in developing the next generation of skilled tradespeople, and today, we’re celebrating a fantastic achievement!

Tyler, a valued member of our Facilities, Repairs, and Maintenance division, has officially completed his bricklaying apprenticeship, marking the start of a promising career. From day one, he has demonstrated hard work, resilience, and a passion for his trade, and his dedication has truly paid off.

His Manager, Rob Sanderson commented, “Tyler has shown incredible growth and determination throughout his apprenticeship. He’s a fantastic example of what can be achieved with the right attitude and training. We’re proud to have him as part of the FRM team and excited to see his future contributions to the industry.”

Tyler remarked, “ I have enjoyed my bricklaying apprenticeship. I have had such an amazing group of lads to work with.  My mentor is probably the reason I’ve got through it. I’ve learnt a lot of different skills during my apprenticeship. Rob has also been supportive, giving me good advice. I would recommend an apprenticeship to anyone who is willing to do the hard work for the long-term rewards.”

Tyler’s success is a testament to the value of apprenticeships and the opportunities they create.

Gelder Group is delighted to announce that it has secured a new contract with Newark & Sherwood District Council. This comprehensive agreement encompasses emergency callouts, internal and external repairs and renewals, general maintenance, and void works across multiple locations within the district. The contract is set to span over a duration of three years, marking a significant milestone for our ongoing partnership with the Council.

This exciting opportunity builds on Gelder Group’s proven track record of delivering high-quality construction and maintenance services.

“We are delighted to begin our partnership with Newark & Sherwood District Council,” said Steve Gelder, CEO of Gelder Group. “This new contract is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our team, and we look forward to providing outstanding service in every aspect of the work.”

Gelder Group will deliver key responsive maintenance alongside larger planned projects to support the Council’s infrastructure and ensure their buildings remain safe, functional, and well-maintained.

Gelder Group is pleased to announce that Marlow Blonde has joined the Facilities, Repairs and Maintenance (FRM) division, bringing a wealth of experience and an impressive academic background to the role.

Marlow holds a First-Class Honours degree in Building Surveying (BSc) and has a proven track record of excellence in the field. Prior to rejoining Gelder Group, Marlow served as a Building Surveyor at Savills, where he undertook a wide range of responsibilities, including project management and work specifications, works to listed buildings while securing consents and managing heritage-focused projects, building surveys, dilapidations, and schedules of condition. He also conducted drone surveys to provide innovative perspectives on projects and acted as Principal Designer while leading on contract administration. Marlow also previously worked with Gelder Group as a Contracts Manager within the commercial division, further deepening his understanding of the company’s values and operations.

In his new role within FRM, Marlow will manage key contracts, including the recently secured Newark and Sherwood District Council contract. His responsibilities will span surveying and quoting for works, managing client relationships and ensuring satisfaction, coordinating trades and overseeing design aspects, and ensuring efficient invoicing and project completion.

Marlow expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “I am excited to return to Gelder Group and take on this opportunity to contribute to the FRM division. I look forward to working closely with the team and our clients to deliver exceptional results.”

Gelder Group brought festive cheer to its head office this season with a company-wide Christmas decorating competition, showcasing the creativity and holiday spirit of its departments. The Facilities Repair and Maintenance office claimed the winning title after dazzling the judge with their exceptional decorations.

This year’s competition saw participation from all departments, each putting their unique spin on the festive season. From elaborate winter wonderlands to intricately themed displays, the contest transformed the office into a hub of Christmas magic and creativity.

Giles Walter, the guest judge for the competition, taking the role very seriously and evaluated all entries based on five key criteria, Creativity and Originality, Theme Consistency,Attention to Detail, Overall Aesthetic Appeal and Festive Spirit.

After careful consideration, the Facilities Repair and Maintenance office stood out, impressing Giles Walter with their innovative design, consistent theme, and keen attention to detail, all while embodying the true festive spirit of the season.

“It was a pleasure to see the incredible effort put in by each department,” said Giles Walter. “The level of creativity and holiday cheer on display was truly inspiring and I particularly enjoyed the Lemon drizzle and Cheesecake on offer.”

Gelder Group has made a significant contribution to digital inclusion efforts by donating 44 desktop PCs and 24 laptops to Framework Housing Association. This donation will bolster Framework’s Digital Inclusion Programme, a transformative initiative designed to empower individuals by bridging the digital divide.

Over the past two years, Framework’s Digital Inclusion Team has re-purposed over 300 laptops into high-speed internet browsing devices by replacing their Windows operating systems with Chrome OS Flex. These devices have been used as kiosks within Framework services, loan machines, or gifted to service users. This innovative approach provides access to essential online tools such as email, office applications via Google Workspace or Microsoft 365, and video conferencing platforms like Zoom and Teams.

The machines enable service users to perform everyday online activities that many take for granted, including:

• Managing finances through online banking
• Contacting healthcare providers
• Sorting energy bills
• Navigating social media and entertainment
• Searching for housing
• Reporting repairs
• Managing Universal Credit journals

Additionally, they are integral to training programs, with Learn My Way serving as the preferred online learning platform at Framework. The devices are managed through Google Management Console, ensuring longevity and efficiency while promoting sustainability.

This latest donation from Gelder Group enhances the Digital Inclusion Programme’s capacity. The 24 laptops will continue to be deployed as kiosks or used in Framework’s Digital Inclusion and Learning Hub.

The donation of 44 desktop PCs presents a new and exciting opportunity. These desktops will be revamped with Zorin, a user-friendly Linux-based operating system. Volunteer Digital Champions will lead the reinstallation and create user manuals to ensure a smooth transition for recipients. Once refurbished, the desktops will be gifted to Framework service users, providing them with essential tools for managing tenancies, accessing online services, and making positive life changes.

“These desktops represent a valuable solution for adults and individuals moving from supported accommodations into independent living,” said Kevin Rookes, Digital Inclusion Coordinator, Skills Plus, Framework. “Devices like these promote safe, responsible internet use and provide vital access for children needing to complete homework or families navigating daily online tasks.”

By supporting this programme, Gelder Group reinforces its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community empowerment. The donation ensures that Framework service users are not left behind in the digital age and strengthens the organisation’s ability to provide inclusive and equitable services.

For more informaiton on Framework or their Digital Inclusion Programme click here

Jade Sanderson (Gelders), Harry Leak (Gelders),Kevin Rookes (Digital Inclusion Coordinator, Framework), Richard Redmore (Digital IT Support Officer, Framework), and Rob Sanderson (Construction contract manager, Gelders);

Harry Leak (Gelders), Kevin Rookes (Digital Inclusion Coordinator, Framework), Dominic Lee and Jim Mortimer (volunteer Digital Champions*), Richard Redmore (Digital IT Support Officer, Framework),and Jade Sanderson (Gelders)

Ron Finnegan (Fundraising Officer, Framework) and Rob Sanderson (Construction contract manager, Gelders)

This holiday season, Gelder Group is proud to have collaborated with Lincolnshire Housing Partnership (LHP) in a meaningful initiative to support families in need. Thanks to the generosity of Gelder Group staff, hundreds of essential toiletry items have been collected and donated to LHP, addressing a critical gap in support for personal hygiene products within the community.

The collection drive was launched in response to feedback from LHP, which identified that, although food banks provide vital assistance, they often lack personal care items that families need for everyday wellbeing. Through contributions from Gelder Group team members, items including toilet rolls, deodorants, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and soap have now been delivered to local support centres, offering some relief to families during this challenging time of year.

Rob Sanderson, Contracts Manager at Gelder Group commented:

We are deeply thankful for the generosity shown by our team. This initiative is about more than just donations; it’s about community and compassion. We’re glad to help ensure that individuals and families can access essential hygiene products this holiday season.

LHP’s appeal is part of its commitment to “Listen, Act, and Learn,” with an emphasis on addressing needs highlighted by community conversations. Following the success of previous initiatives—such as providing pyjamas for children last year—this year’s drive focuses on supplying hygiene products, a simple yet impactful way to support families who might otherwise go without.

Both Gelder Group and LHP extend a heartfelt thank you to all those who contributed, either through monetary donations or by purchasing items directly. This initiative is a testament to the power of community spirit and a reminder that small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact.

Gelder Group is pleased to announce the addition of a new Ford Transit Welfare Van to its vehicle fleet, enhancing on-site welfare and safety provisions for maintenance personnel. This investment underlines Gelder Group’s commitment to providing employees with a comfortable, fully compliant mobile welfare unit, ensuring both health and safety (H&S) standards are met on all contracted projects.

The Ford Transit Welfare Van is specifically designed to support teams working in the field, particularly in remote or extended-duration locations, by offering comprehensive on-site facilities. The vehicle’s features include:

• Seating for up to four people with a table to facilitate breaks and discussions in a safe, comfortable environment
• Water boiler for hot drinks and refreshments
• Hot and cold running water to maintain high hygiene standards
• Microwave for convenient meal preparation
• Flushing chemical toilet with a handwashing basin that provides hot and cold water for effective sanitation
• Central heating to ensure warmth in colder months
• Dedicated drying room to protect and maintain personal protective equipment (PPE)

Designed to support health, safety, and welfare compliance, the vehicle’s onboard facilities run independently on battery power, allowing full functionality at sites without direct access to mains power. Alternatively, the unit can connect to a 230v mains supply when available.

“We are committed to supporting our team with facilities that not only enhance their comfort but also align with our high health and safety standards,” stated David Ternent, Health & Safety Manager. “This addition to our fleet reflects Gelder Group’s ongoing dedication to providing a safe and compliant environment for our staff, allowing them to perform their duties effectively.”