Meet the Staff: Ralph!

Hello everyone, I’m Ralph Matthews. I am proud to say I work in the Future Proof team, which is a part of Northfield Community Partnership, for over 3 years, with my colleague Hannah, whereby I can truly say we make a massive difference to people’s lives across Northfield Constituency for the over 50s.

I was born in the New Forest, Hampshire, near to Southampton. I am a proud Sotonian and have followed the Saints, nickname for Southampton FC, for most of my life. I have a degree in Scientific Illustration. After many years of living in London and working for the Government in supporting schools, I moved to the wonderful Midlands in 2006, which I now call home. I moved up to Solihull just before the arrival of my wonderful daughter, who is 19 now! As well as having numerous jobs roles, I worked for around 10 years in schools supporting vulnerable children with special needs. I met my current partner 11 years ago and we now have a house together in Bromsgrove with my lovely 6-year-old son and my beautiful16 year old Stepdaughter.

Primarily, the work I carry out for Future Proof is gardening clearance and handyman jobs. I love working outside and transforming people’s gardens. It's very rewarding work and I'm privileged to be in a position whereby I get so many lovely comments from appreciative customers who tell me how much difference it has made for them. I take great pride in the work I do, for people in our community who are unable to do it themselves. I am a great believer in the power of the outside environment in making a difference for people’s mental health.

As well as doing gardening jobs I do a variety of handyman jobs, which can include fitting toilet seats, putting shelves up, putting wardrobes up, fit shower holders, repairing floors, fixing and repairing doors and key safe locks, etc. As well as these, in the winter months I do warm homes improvements, which can include fixing draughts around doors and windows, fitting reflective foil behind radiators, checking boilers, etc. I also provide support if citizens have gas and electricity debts by speaking to their energy provider about agreeing to a new payment plan, which are affordable for the citizen. I also make sure the citizen are on the priority register.

I help Hannah with two community groups, run by Redeemer Church, at Oddingly Hall, on a Monday and a Wednesday. These groups provide a friendly, safe environment for people to socialise, have hot food and drinks, play games, quizzes, art, etc.

Follow Future Proof on their Facebook page here!