Inspire Communities has grown and developed over the last two years from a spark of an idea to a social enterprise that helps vulnerable people to feel valued, empowered and to develop skills for employment with confidence in their abilities and taking an active role in the community.
The latest project involves plans for a retail and coffee shop development to be run and managed by Inspired Communities’ clients as part of a work experience programme and fundraising initiative.
The not-for-profit scheme relies completely on funding, donations and help from local businesses and following a chance meeting at a networking event, Chartered Building Surveyors at Delaney Marling Partnership have managed to save thousands of pounds from a property that Chief Officer, Dave Edeson had his heart set on for his new initiative.
Dave Edeson explains:
“Some might assume that employing a building surveyor is adding to the cost of a building project, but in this case we have saved literally thousands of pounds by seeking DMP’s advice.”
“They spotted an array of issues at a property that we had expected would just require some basic structural improvements and cosmetic changes and that the premises were perfect for us.”
“In actual fact, DMP found a multitude of structural issues that would have completely swallowed up the funding that we have worked so hard to access. DMP provided us with an in-depth survey which showed items invisible to the un-trained eye such as dry-rot, asbestos, very poor supports and crumbling brickwork.”
“I am so pleased that we sought their advice prior to signing the lease. Whatever the issue, it is wise to contact a building surveyor to find out the route of the cause before instructing contractors to undertake work, if only by making a telephone call.”
Simon Delaney, Chartered Surveyor at DMP says:
“When Dave and I met, he told me about new premises that needed some improvements and he was hopeful it would work out and lease negotiations would be a success.”
“As part of our business we help charities and not-for-profit businesses in any way we can and it was just by chance this time that I mentioned a survey which could be done at a reduced rate for a charity.”
“As Dave mentions, he is very pleased that we met as a survey is able to uncover problems in a building that requires professional expertise. We are delighted that Dave decided not to sign the lease and instead he has found other premises which are far more suitable for this fantastic development.”
