The People Behind the Work: A Conversation with Richard

For our latest spotlight, we’re continuing our series of interviews that shine a light on the people working behind the scenes at The Carpenter’s Arms. These conversations give insight into the day-to-day work that helps keep our charity running smoothly and supports the recovery journey of the people we work with.

We recently spoke with Richard Butler, our Health & Safety Officer, about what drew him to the role, the variety and challenges of managing multiple properties, and how his work contributes to creating safe, supportive environments for both staff and residents.

What made you want to work at The Carpenter’s Arms, and have you worked in a facilities or maintenance role like this before?

I was genuinely inspired by the incredible work The Carpenter’s Arms does and the positive impact it has on people’s lives. Being part of an organisation that supports meaningful change really resonates with me, and I’m passionate about contributing to that mission. I also believe that my experience in facilities and maintenance can add real value, helping to improve the environment, support the team, and ensure the organisation continues to move forward.

Can you tell us about the outdoor side of your role, including the work you and Neil do at Malone Meadows?

A lot of my work involves the exterior of the properties, from routine checks to ensuring essential systems like the septic tanks are running properly and of course taking care of Malone Meadows. This was a brilliant idea of planting fruit trees onsite to use in the future to supply the residents with fresh fruits. It also allows our clients to help nurture the trees and watch them take root, grow, and produce fruit in an almost symbolic parallel of their own journeys, and how nurturing themselves can help them take root in Christ, grow, and when stronger, provide fruit to others.

What do the facilities actually look like in practice — for example, number of properties/rooms, outdoor space, and the overall scale you’re responsible for?

I currently oversee seven properties, which together comprise around 70 rooms. Several of these locations also include outdoor spaces such as gardens and car parks. My role involves ensuring that all facilities are well‑maintained, safe, and kept to a high standard. This includes managing repairs, coordinating maintenance work, and making sure each property provides a safe and supportive environment for the people who live and work there.

What do your day-to-day responsibilities look like?

Day to day, my work involves regular visits to each site to carry out inspections, respond to maintenance issues, and ensure compliance with safety standards. I coordinate repairs, schedule planned maintenance andwork closely with staff to address any concerns that arise. My role is very hands‑on, and I make sure each property is operating safely, efficiently, and to a high standard so that clients and staff have a reliable and well‑maintained environment.

What do you enjoy most about the role — and what are some of the more challenging aspects?

What I enjoy most about the role is being able to make a tangible difference to the organisation and the people who rely on our services. Ensuring that the properties are safe, comfortable, and well‑maintained gives me a real sense of purpose, and I really value the variety the job brings, no two days are ever the same! I also enjoy working closely with staff and being someone they can rely on to solve problems quickly and effectively.

The more challenging aspects often come from managing priorities or dealing with unexpected issues that require immediate attention. Facilities work can be unpredictable, and it can be demanding to balance reactive tasks with planned maintenance. However, I see these challenges as part of what makes the role rewarding, and they drive me to stay organised, proactive, and adaptable.

What are some of the biggest challenges the facilities currently face?

As the organisation grows, the demand on facilities naturally increases, more buildings, more rooms, and more people to support. At the same time, staffing can be a challenge, especially when specialist skills are needed or when urgent issues arise across different sites.

Following the fire and recovery work, has there been an opportunity to do things differently or improve how spaces are used?

It’s still an ongoing project, but it has definitely created opportunities to rethink how some of our spaces are used. The situation, although very distressing, has encouraged us to look at things with fresh eyes, thinking about more efficient storage and improved fire safety measures. Although we’re not finished yet, the process is already opening the door to positive changes that will benefit both staff and residents in the long term.

How do you see your role supporting the clients journey and the day-to-day running of The Carpenter’s Arms?

A big part of aiding the clients’ recovery is creating spaces that feel secure, comfortable, and respectful, places where they can focus on rebuilding their lives without unnecessary stress or disruption. By keeping the properties compliant, addressing issues quickly, and continually making improvements, I help create a setting that supports residents’ wellbeing and allows staff to focus on providing the care and guidance clients need.

Ultimately, my work behind the scenes plays a key part in helping clients feel supported, valued, and able to move forward positively.

Meet Neal: Maintenance

Neal Brinton works in Maintenance as part of Richard’s team, playing a vital role in keeping all of our centres safe, functional and well maintained. His work spans everything from everyday tasks like replacing lightbulbs to more complex repairs, including plumbing issues and roof leaks.

Neal takes a hands-on approach, supporting with practical solutions wherever needed, whether that’s fixing a leak or helping resolve smaller on-site issues.

His role covers both reactive and proactive maintenance. At any moment, he may respond to urgent, hazard-based situations that require immediate attention. Alongside this, he plans ahead to prevent future problems, ensuring properties are prepared for potential risks and maintaining spaces through ongoing improvements and decorating.

Neal also contributes to maintaining a strong health and safety culture across all centres.