A TOTAL of 73 GlaxoSmithKline staff will be trading in their laptops for paint brushes and power tools to help make a positive difference for residents at Bridge House supported housing scheme in Humber Close, West Drayton.

The team have offered their services as part of the firm’s annual Orange Day initiative, which encourages staff to use their time and skills to support good causes in the  community.

The majority of residents at Bridge House spend a lot of time in their homes and often do not have help or support from relatives or friends to carry out home improvements.

Staff will be brightening residents’ rooms with a coat of paint, totally revamping the garden area, restoring the fencing, benches and building an outdoor seating area where residents can relax.

Bridge House is an older person’s housing scheme designed to help people from the age of 55 upwards to retain as much of their independence as possible.

The scheme is managed by A2Dominion property group, which has a selection of small self-contained studios and one-to-two bedroom apartments.


Launched in 2009, the Orange Day initiative allows all GSK employees to take one day off to volunteer with a charity, either individually or with their team.

Orange Day is on company time and employees can choose any day to volunteer as long as it is approved by their line manager.

Employees across the world have supported a wide range of projects including work in schools, shelters for the homeless, community gardens, nursing homes and communities affected by natural disasters.