Prism Claims Group goes back to school!

Rob Ford, Vendor Manager at Zurich Insurance, invited members of the Prism Claims Group team to help deliver a much-needed improvement project at Wimborne Primary School in Southsea, Portsmouth.

He said: “After seeing a plea for help in the Wimborne Primary School newsletter, I asked Prism Claims Group if they would be willing to volunteer their time along with mine, to restore and refresh the school’s boundary wall, ensuring it was safe, sturdy, and welcoming in time for the start of the new school term.”

Carl Daborn, National Contractor and Surveyor Performance Manager at Prism Claims Group, was one of the team members who took part.

He said: “We were delighted to offer our support. However, beyond painting, light gardening, and basic DIY skills, it’s fair to say that we needed to tap into our network of building repair contractors!

“That’s when we turned to Topmarx, specialists in the reinstatement and restoration of residential and commercial properties. Incidentally, Peter from Topmarx also had his children attend this school when they were younger.”

The boundary wall, measuring 25 metres long by 1.7 metres high, needed some TLC. To start, protective measures were put in place to ensure safety and minimise disruption. Vegetation and weeds growing along the wall were then cleared away, creating a clean base for the repairs. Essential masonry works were carried out, including repointing sections of the wall and replacing damaged bricks.

Once the brickwork was completed, the surface was prepared by scraping back any bubbled or loose paint. A fresh, durable paint finish was then applied across the entire wall, giving it a clean and vibrant new look.

James Fairbairn, Director of Solace Loss Adjusting, part of the Prism Claims Group, said: “It was a great day well spent doing something positive for a good cause. We were pleased that Rob asked us to help out. We all pull together as a team in our day jobs anyhow, but we’re not always face to face, so it was a great opportunity to get to know each other better.”

Carina Jacobs, Headteacher at Wimborne Primary School, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Zurich, Prism Network, and Topmarx for restoring the wall in our outdoor learning area. Their work has created a safe and inspiring space for our children, who were thrilled to return to school and see the transformation.

“The wall is now ready for our site team to paint a beautiful mural, and the excitement among the pupils is truly heartwarming. Thank you for helping us bring creativity and learning outdoors!”