Incredible transformation

OFFENDERS have transformed a run-down property to help a woman in desperate need.

The young mum was rehoused from the Midlands by Oldham Family Crisis Group after suffering domestic abuse — but the building she moved into was in urgent need of redecorating.

Helga was helped by Community Payback with offenders painting her house only a few days before she gave birth to a baby girl — and she is delighted with the results.

Community Payback is a punishment for breaking the law, rigorously supervised and enforced by probation.

Helga said: “The offenders painted the whole house, everything, in such quick time and I am so very grateful. I was heavily pregnant and unable to do it myself, and it was such a stressful time for me.

“The help I was given by the charity, the offenders and the people of Oldham means so much to me.”

The Oldham Family Crisis Group was established in 1979 and is for women and children who experience domestic violence.

Stephen Cope, Community Payback manager, said: “Community Payback is a way for offenders to make up to the community for the harm they have done.

“In this instance, given the fact that Helga was due to give birth and we had to get the job done quickly so that the paint fumes cleared, the offenders have made a real difference to someone who was in considerable need.

“They can take great pride in their work.

“I am delighted that everything is working out well for Helga and her baby girl.”

Oldham Family Crisis Group’s hotline number is 0161-628 4991.