Suffolk ProHelp is a countywide network of businesses which provides professional and strategic support free of charge to voluntary organisations.
The guiding principle of Suffolk ProHelp is that members approach this work in the same way as they would any other fee-paying customer. The only difference is that the community client is not charged for the work undertaken.
Suffolk ProHelp is co-ordinated by Community Action Suffolk and funded through the Transformation Challenge Award, made possible by Suffolk Public Sector Leaders group.
We’d like to introduce you to one of the Suffolk ProHelp members, who has signed up to support Suffolk’s voluntary organisations.
Name of business
Hestur Ltd (website)
Tell us about your business
We are a firm of Consulting Engineers whose principals have over 35 years experience of working in the fields of Civil, Structural and Geotechnical Engineering. Clients include those in the public and commercial & private sectors, dealing with refurbishment, renovation projects and new construction. Surveys undertaken and advice provided to assist with project conception as well as design and implementation.
Why did your business get involved with Suffolk ProHelp?
Our principals have been involved with Suffolk ProHelp since it was first formed in Suffolk.
Which voluntary organisations have Suffolk Prohelp matched you with and how did you help them?
We have been involved with:
- numerous Village Halls, providing structural surveys and assisting with rebuild costs
- the redevelopment of premises operated by children’s charity
- advice re maintenance and refurbishment of the Erskine Centre (Chedburgh)
- structural advice for Suffolk Refugee Support premises
Nick Feldman, Vice Chair and Treasurer of Suffolk Refugee Support Forum, said:
“We have now signed the lease and have all the permissions. We have a contractor lined up to deliver an office we shall be excited to use. We are so grateful to you [all] and, through you, to all the professionals who have helped us, not only for their generosity in giving their time, but also for their full, timely and helpful advice. Even if we had been foolhardy enough to embark on the venture without them, we would have given up in despair very quickly. It may be that we will call on some of them again on the odd occasion, but now seems to be a good moment to let you know how happy we are.”
How else does your business get involved with the local community?
We work with education facilities, giving presentations on engineering in the community, etc.
What would you say to voluntary organisations which might need professional support?
We will be pleased to help, it is very important that the “foundations” of any scheme are well conceived before embarking on any project, and initial advice from professionals can be of great benefit.
Why would your recommend businesses join Suffolk ProHelp?
Yes! It also helps fulfils our role of social responsibility.
Suffolk ProHelp would like to hear from you if you are:
- a business in Suffolk that would be interested in joining Suffolk ProHelp
- a voluntary organisation or charity in Suffolk that would be interested in probono services from Suffolk businesses
Read more about Suffolk ProHelp here, or contact:
Angela Lee-Foster, Suffolk ProHelp Manager
[email protected]
01473 345 338 / 07407 097750