HMG Paints, the UK’s leading independent paint manufacturer, has partnered with Skills People Group to donate a range of high-quality decorative products in support of their Women Quickstart DIY 2-Day Course.
The community-driven partnership was sparked by a connection made through the North Manchester Business Network (NMBN). The network consists of mutually supportive businesses collectively inspired to give back to communities in North Manchester. The network meets bi-monthly with the aim of creating business opportunities through networking, delivering social value together, whilst also finding out about the latest developments in the city.
Located just down the road from HMG Paints’ historic head office and manufacturing plant in Collyhurst, the training centre provides a local hub for empowering residents through hands-on skills training. Delivered at the Collyhurst Community Skills Centre in partnership with Manchester City Council, the free two-day “Quickstart DIY” workshop is specially designed for women across Manchester.
The initiative provides practical instruction in essential household tasks—including painting and decorating, carpentry, plumbing, and basic electrics—helping participants build real-world confidence, gain control over home maintenance, and save money.
“We’re incredibly grateful to HMG Paints for their generous support of our Women Quickstart DIY programme. This partnership demonstrates the power of local organisations coming together to create meaningful opportunities within our communities. Through hands-on learning and practical experience, we’re helping women build confidence, develop valuable life skills, and become more self-sufficient in maintaining their homes.” commented Lloyd Kingston, Academy Manager Manchester, Construction Skills People. “Having the support of a respected local manufacturer such as HMG Paints not only enhances the quality of training we can provide but also reinforces the importance of investing in people and communities right here in North Manchester. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this collaboration continues to have on our learners.”
Through this donation of paints from HMG’s decorative range, participants on the course will gain hands-on experience using industry-standard paint products made right on their doorstep in North Manchester.
“Supporting our local community and helping people build practical, life-changing skills has always been at the heart of what we do,” said Paddy Dyson, Marketing Manager for HMG Paints. “Connecting with the team through the North Manchester Business Network highlighted a fantastic opportunity to support our neighbours in Collyhurst. We are thrilled to supply products for the Women Quickstart DIY course and play a small part in encouraging more women to tackle decorating and DIY projects with confidence.”
The Quickstart DIY course is open to women living in North Manchester and the wider city region. To learn more about upcoming courses or to register interest, contact Carla Kenworthy via email at [email protected] or call 07977 569 732
Rebecca Kirkland, Chair of the North Manchester Business Network said regarding the collaboration, “At the North Manchester Business Network, our primary goal has always been to foster meaningful connections that extend far beyond standard business networking. Seeing our members build new partnerships that bring local companies together to create a tangible, positive difference in our community is deeply rewarding. When businesses unite with a shared purpose, the impact on North Manchester is immense”
For more information on the North Manchester Business Network visit https://www.nmbn.org.uk/about.






