Wichelstowe developer donates £1,500 to help bereavement charity

A charity that provides support for people in Wiltshire who have lost their partner at a young age has received a £1,500 donation from one of the Wichelstowe housebuilders.

The funding has been awarded by David Wilson Redrow South West to WAY Widowed and Young, the only national charity across the UK dedicated to supporting people aged 50 or under following the death of their partner.

Stephanie Patrick, Chief Executive of WAY, said: “WAY relies upon donations from our members and the generosity of supporters to help us provide a lifeline to 4,500 young widowed people up and down the country, including in Wiltshire.

“We’re the only UK charity that provides peer-to-peer support for those who’ve been widowed at a young age.

"The generous funds from David Wilson Redrow South West will allow us to provide vital services for our members, including access to our secure members-only website and to a confidential telephone support line offering bereavement support and advice. 

"It will also allow us to reach out to newly bereaved widows and widowers who could benefit so much from our charity’s support through our media work and outreach to GP surgeries, hospitals and funeral directors.”

The donation is part of David Wilson Redrow South West’s ongoing commitment to supporting charities and community organisations that make a positive difference to people’s lives across the region, following a nomination from an employee who had benefited from WAY’s services.

Louise Ware, sales director for David Wilson Redrow South West, said: “We’re proud to support the important work carried out by WAY Widowed and Young. 

"Losing a partner at any age is incredibly difficult, and the charity provides a vital source of comfort, understanding and practical support for people navigating bereavement. 

"We hope this donation will help the charity continue reaching those who need its services most and ensure more young widowed people know they aren’t facing their loss alone.”

David Wilson Redrow South West is currently building new homes at Canalside and Orchards Rise.