A fundraising event hosted by Barratt and David Wilson Homes Eastern Counties has gone above par, raising more than £9,000 for its charities of the year, Trust Links and Service Dogs UK.
A total of 80 golfers in teams of four – including the housebuilder’s employees, suppliers and sub-contractors – took to the fairways at Five Lakes Golf Club in Maldon for the charity tournament, which proved to be a real driving force for the local cause. Raising a total of £9,859.84, the funds have also been matched by The Barratt Redrow Foundation. Founded in 2015, Service Dogs UK is dedicated to supporting Armed Forces Veterans and Emergency Service personnel affected by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The organisation provides specifically trained assistance dogs to help alleviate the life-altering symptoms of PTSD, creating a life-changing partnership and a long-lasting bond of support and safety. Supported by a network of trainers, volunteers and fosters, Service Dogs UK provides ongoing support throughout the training journey and beyond, from its hubs in Essex, Somerset and the south coast, offering Veterans independence, confidence, safety and improved wellbeing. Mica Flett, Grants and Trust Fundraiser at Service Dogs UK, said: “The golf tournament was another fabulous event hosted by the Barratt and David Wilson Homes team, and it sounds like it was a huge success and a lot of fun.
“We are continually grateful for Barratt and David Wilson Homes’ support and enthusiasm for raising funds for our Veterans. We’d also like to congratulate everyone involved and thank them once again for their fundraising efforts.” Trust Links, an independent mental health and wellbeing charity established in 2000, works across Mid and South Essex to support people of all ages experiencing mental health difficulties, learning disabilities and other challenges.
The organisation offers a wide range of programmes including therapeutic gardening, recovery and wellbeing workshops, social groups for young people and families, as well as environmental projects and volunteering opportunities. All of its programmes are designed to improve wellbeing, build stronger communities and empower local people. Matt King, CEO at Trust Links, said: "We are grateful to Barratt and David Wilson Homes for its fundraising efforts in support of Trust Links.
“The support of companies is vital in enabling us to sustain and develop our work, and we were delighted to be chosen as one of its charities of the year. Every donation will help us reach more people as we grow communities and transform lives across Essex." As Barratt and David Wilson Homes Eastern Counties’ charities of the year, Trust Links and Service Dogs UK will continue to benefit from the developer’s corporate fundraising events until December.
Tom Wright, Managing Director at Barratt and David Wilson Homes Eastern Counties, said: “Our charity golf day is always a fantastic occasion and a highlight of our fundraising calendar.
“This year, we were delighted to support two brilliant charities that provide unique support to those in need across our communities. We’re extremely grateful to everyone who came along and took part. Their generosity will go a long way towards supporting the important work of Trust Links and Service Dogs UK.”
Royston-based company Camtech swung into first place and claimed victory in the tournament, receiving a trophy as a prize.
