Member Article

Bristol loneliness charity set to benefit from thousands

A charity which aims to support isolated and lonely people across the region is set to benefit from a significant windfall - after being named as David Wilson Homes’ charity of the year.

The five-star housebuilder, which raised over £58,000 for its previous charity of the year, On The Record (OTB), is now turning attention to how it can boost funds for The Marmalade Trust, with a street party among the events already planned for the year.

Established in 2013, The Marmalade Trust offers an all year-round vital link between lonely people and the communities and resources that can help them. It’s ongoing mission to find and support isolated people in the region sees the charity host two bi-annual events including a Christmas Day Lunch and Loneliness Awareness Week held in June. The trust is also trial-ling its first Buddy Scheme, which connects volunteers with people experiencing loneliness.

Amy Perrin, Founder and CEO at The Marmalade Trust said: “Part of our role is about build-ing sustainable, friendly communities – so there is definitely a lot of synergy between David Wilson Homes and us as a charity.

“We are extremely grateful for choosing us as their Charity of the Year. The funds raised through our year of activities will help us enormously to continue our work in reconnecting people that are lonely. As a small charity we rely heavily on the generosity of fundraisers and ensure that as much money as possible goes direct to individuals.

Ian Menham, managing director of David Wilson Homes said: “The Marmalade Trust does an incredible amount of work for the lonely and isolated people in the region.

“Through our partnership, we are planning a jam-packed year of events and activities, all aimed at getting communities together, raising awareness of loneliness and creating new friendships, including a huge street party event at our Ladden Garden Village development in Yate.”

Amy added: “2020 is the year that we want to help people build valuable friendships. With the help of David Wilson Homes, we hope to have a little bit of fun along the way – so watch this space!”

As part of its commitment to helping the communities it develops in, David Wilson Homes will also donate £1,000 each month to a charity or organisation through the David Wilson Homes Community Fund. Since its launch in 2019, the scheme has fast become established as a dedicated resource for backing local causes which improve the quality of life for those living in the region.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by David Wilson Homes South West .