Herculean effort underway by 150 volunteers to transform Norfolk family's home
They say it takes a village, and that's exactly what happened when 150 volunteers rose to the challenge of helping a family in need.
Toby Fletcher is 16 years old and lives with his mum, Sarah, and siblings in Foulden, between Swaffham and Brandon.
He has quadriplegic cerebral palsy and dystonia, requiring round-the-clock care and support.
And to make everyday life a little easier for him and his family, a major home renovation is underway – including the addition of a specially adapted downstairs bedroom and wet room.
Tony Everett, volunteer, and Sarah Fletcher (Image: Band of Builders)
Toby's dad Shaun had been completing the renovation while working at his day job as an electrical engineer.
The father-of-six, who also had two grandchildren, tragically died by suicide on Christmas Eve 2024, which meant the work was unfinished.
As a result, carers have only been able visit during the day and Toby's mum has had to carry him to bed and care for him alone during the night.
A family friend put Sarah in contact with Band of Builders in February, who jumped on board to help the family.
Completing Toby's wet room, his bedroom and updating the house will have a massive positive impact on family life, Sarah explained.
Tony Everett, volunteer, and Sarah Fletcher (Image: Band of Builders)
Tony Everett is one of the 150 volunteers that has signed up to get stuck into the project.
He is a bricklayer and has been given the job of looking after the health and wellbeing of the volunteers.
He said it's one of several projects that he has been involved with, and he loves giving back to the community.
The work is set to start on July 5 and is expected to take 12 days to complete.
Band of Builders began in 2016 and provides practical, financial and wellbeing support to those in need. It helps those who work in the construction industry and their families cope with life-changing circumstances.
Visit https://bandofbuilders.enthuse.com/profile for more information, to volunteer or to donate.
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