Wichelstowe builder's £127,000 charity efforts

Housebuilder Barratt has announced its charity donations in the South West over the last year.

The total given by the company, whose developments include homes in Wichelstowe in Swindon, was £127,500.

Each year, Barratt Homes Bristol and Barratt David Wilson Homes South West provide funding for charities and organisations across the region as part of their commitment to create positive legacies in the communities where it builds.

Wiltshire Air Ambulance was among the charities to receive support. The essential service provides helicopter emergency medical assistance across Wiltshire, Bath, and the surrounding areas.

Operating 19 hours a day, 365 days a year, it has a dedicated team comprising one helicopter and two critical care cars. It faces the ongoing challenge of raising £4 million each year to sustain their lifesaving operations.

With no regular direct Government funding or National Lottery grants, the charity relies on the generosity of the public and local businesses to fulfil its crucial missions.

Recognising the financial hardships faced by many individuals and organisations during the current cost-of-living crisis, Wiltshire Air Ambulance has encountered similar, significant challenges - escalating fuel costs, which have doubled over the past 12 months, and rising energy bills at their airbase have placed additional strain on their resources.

Naomi Barker, corporate partnerships lead at Wiltshire Air Ambulance, said: “The generous donation exemplifies a commitment to the local community and recognises the invaluable services we provide across Wiltshire and Bath.

"This support will undoubtedly make a significant impact on our ability to continue with our lifesaving work in the region.”

Andrea Pilgrim, sales director for Barratt Homes Bristol, said: “We believe in the power of community and the transformative effect that collective efforts can have on creating a better and more inclusive society.

"Our charity drive will continue throughout 2024, along with our dedication to have a positive impact on the lives of those in need.”

Louise Ware, sales director for Barratt David Wilson Homes South West, added: “We're happy to have helped so many charities over the past year.

"The dedicated efforts of these organisations that enhance the wellbeing of those in need is inspirational and I hope our donations will allow them to extend their support to even more people in our communities.”

Every month, each Barratt David Wilson Homes division can donate £1,500 to a local concern that works to improve the quality of life for those living in their area.

The Wichelstowe development is one of the largest local authority joint venture agreements in the country and the South West’s boldest new developments, being built by Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes in partnership with Swindon Borough Council.

It will deliver 3,000 new homes over the next 20 years, along with new schools and community facilities. The 250-hectare site on the southern edge of Swindon will include extensive open spaces, nature conservation areas, playing pitches and allotments.

As part of this neighbourhood residents can enjoy 12km of new nature trails, play areas, 200 acres of open space and walks along the Wilts and Berks canal.

There is also a range of schools for children of all ages within easy reach. Junction 16 of the M4 and Swindon train station are both within a 10-minute drive, providing easy access to Bristol and London.