Barratt and David Wilson Homes has donated £1,500 to Service Dogs UK, a charity that provides specially trained assistance dogs to veterans and emergency workers living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The funding will cover costs for training and matching a dog with a new owner, helping to build a strong bond and improve independence.
Charity Background and Impact
Founded in 2015, Service Dogs UK supports former military and blue light staff in regaining confidence through canine companionship. The charity operates support hubs across Essex, Somerset, and the south coast. Mica Flett, grants and trust fundraiser at Service Dogs UK, said: “It is wonderful to know the team at Barratt and David Wilson Homes feel as enthusiastic as we do about helping ex-Armed Forces and Emergency Service personnel. PTSD can be a very debilitating and isolating condition – everyday tasks or situations that many of us take for granted seem impossible for someone managing the condition.” She added: “This donation will directly help change the life of someone who lives with these symptoms, helping them find a new way to navigate the future with a PTSD Assistance Dog by their side.”
Community Fund Scheme and Foundation Support
The donation was made through the housebuilder's community fund scheme, which aids local causes in areas where they build new homes. The scheme is backed by the Barratt Redrow Foundation, celebrating its fifth anniversary. The foundation estimates its work directly impacts 100,000 young people annually, and over 2,000 charities have received support since the scheme launched.
Tom Wright, managing director at Barratt and David Wilson Homes Eastern Counties, said: “We are proud to support Service Dogs UK through our Community Fund scheme. The charity carries out incredibly important work supporting veterans and emergency service personnel affected by PTSD, and we are delighted that this donation will help contribute to its ongoing efforts and make a meaningful difference.”
Local Community Legacy
The housing firm hopes the money will leave a lasting positive legacy in the local Essex community. For more information on the charity or to make a donation, visit www.servicedogsuk.org. To find out more about the developer, visit www.barratthomes.co.uk or www.dwh.co.uk.
