Today, Barratt and David Wilson Homes South Wales has donated a total of £102,930.50 to two chosen charities ― the housebuilder’s charity of the year, Mind Cymru (receiving £43,930.50), and children’s charity, KidsOut (receiving £59,000.00).
The financial impact of the pandemic has been especially devastating for the charity sector, with Barratt Developments South Wales taking the early decision to extend its 12-month partnership with Mind Cymru by another year ― to maximise fundraising opportunities.
The South Wales housebuilder is also a longstanding supporter of KidsOut ― the fun and happiness charity which provides positive experiences to disadvantaged children in refuge.
Pre-Covid, money was raised for both charities through a number of different initiatives, including the sale of ex-show home furniture to staff and homebuyers and ‘dress down days’ in the Barratt and David Wilson offices.
During lockdown however, the majority of the housebuilder’s planned fundraising events were cancelled, including its annual charity golf day at the Celtic Manor Resort. Instead, the team donated the funds for its annual staff Christmas party to Mind Cymru, as well as continuing with its popular furniture sales and making gift donations to KidsOut — to help bring a smile to children’s faces during the festive period.
What’s more, Barratt Developments PLC at UK-level matched part of the money raised by the South Wales division for Mind Cymru, with a contribution of £15,000.00.
The total amount raised will go a long way towards supporting Welsh wellbeing, with just £10 allowing 40 people receive essential information booklets about mental health, and £120 offering a lifeline to eight people in desperate need of support from the Mind legal line. Meanwhile, £300 could support a young person bereaved by suicide to access one-to-one or group support.
Adele Sherwood, Community Fundraising Manager for Mind, said: “We are extremely grateful to have been chosen as Barratt & David Wilson Homes South Wales’ charity of the year.
“During the last 18 months, millions of us have either experienced a mental health problem, or seen a loved one struggle ― highlighting the desperate need for further support in Wales.
“The incredible sum raised will therefore help us step up the fight for mental health ― fighting for change, for fairness, for respect and for life-changing support.”
Through their support services and network of local Minds, Mind Cymru helps people experiencing mental health problems to live life as fully as possible. They won’t give up until everyone who suffers from a mental health problem is able to access the support they need, and consequently, gain the respect they deserve.
Steve Williams, Managing Director for Barratt and David Wilson South Wales said: “We’re extremely pleased as an organisation to donate such a vast amount of money to both Mind Cymru and KidsOut ― whose work is imperative to everyone of all ages in Wales.
“This past year has proven that anyone’s life can be impacted by mental health problems ― at any time ― and we sincerely hope our donation to Mind Cymru will help make mental health services more accessible to everyone who needs them.
“In the same way, the pandemic has had a devastating affect on young children ― especially those living in violent homes and seeking refuge. Barratt Developments South Wales is therefore proud to play our part in fighting alongside these vital charities for a better future for all.”
