Barratt and David Wilson Homes has donated £3,000 to Oxford-based Helen and Douglas House, which was the world’s first children’s hospice.
Helen and Douglas House has been a pillar of support for terminally ill children and their families since 1982. Offering services such as supportive stays, outreach, end-of-life care and bereavement support, the charity has touched the lives of many local families in the Thames Valley.
In the past year alone, it has supported 430 families and provided critical end-of-life care for 63 families – a 103% increase from the previous year. Rosalyn Bowen, Corporate Partnerships Executive at Helen and Douglas House, said: “We were absolutely thrilled to learn that Barratt and David Wilson Homes had chosen to support us with this wonderful donation.
“Without amazing donations like this, we would not be able to offer the vital care and support our families need. This donation will make a real difference to families, helping them care for a terminally ill child and cope with the devastating loss of a child.”
The £3,000 donation will cover the cost of medical supplies for a whole month, ensuring children like Elliot - who has Cerebral Palsy, enjoys baking and storytelling during his respite care visits - receive the support they need to create lasting memories. Barratt and David Wilson Homes’ donation was made as part of its Community Fund scheme via The Barratt Foundation, which is run by its parent company, Barratt Developments.
It is designed to support national and local charities, large and small, across the UK to leave a legacy in the communities in which the housebuilder operates. Since The Barratt Foundation launched in 2021, it has donated more than £12 million of funding to over 1,000 charities.
Rosalyn added: “We think Barratt and David Wilson Homes’ Community Fund is a brilliant initiative. It is wonderful that it has committed to supporting local charities, and in our case, the families that are in the local community too.”
Campbell Gregg, Managing Director at Barratt and David Wilson Homes Southern, said: “We are honoured to support Helen and Douglas House and the incredible work it does for families in our community. The charity’s dedication to providing compassionate care aligns with our commitment to giving back to the community.
“We hope this donation helps bring comfort and support to those who need it most.” Helen & Douglas House relies on donations for 90% of its funding, requiring £6 million annually to run its services.
Initiatives like Barratt and David Wilson Homes’ Community Fund are vital in sustaining its mission.