Housebuilder Barratt and David Wilson Homes, based in Chelmsford, has successfully concluded a major fundraising campaign, generating more than £42,000 for its two designated Charities of the Year. The initiative, which ran throughout 2025, saw the company support The Men’s Shed Chelmsford and the Little Edi Foundation, both of which are local organisations dedicated to enhancing community wellbeing in Essex.
A Year of Dedicated Fundraising Efforts
Selected as the primary fundraising focuses in January 2025, these charities benefited from a concerted 12-month effort by Barratt and David Wilson Homes. The culmination of this campaign was marked by the presentation of a cheque for £21,658 to each charity, reflecting a significant financial boost for their operations. This total donation was further amplified by match-funding contributions from the parent company, Barratt Redrow, underscoring a corporate commitment to philanthropic endeavours.
Supporting Community Spaces and Family Welfare
The Men’s Shed Chelmsford, launched by Chelmsford CVS in 2016, operates as a volunteer-led community hub where men can socialise, share practical skills, and engage in activities such as woodworking, crafts, and gardening. It provides access to tools, fosters learning opportunities, and actively supports local community projects, promoting mental health and social inclusion.
Similarly, the Little Edi Foundation, also headquartered in Chelmsford, focuses on assisting disadvantaged children and families by offering essential items like school supplies, food parcels, and access to laundrette services. The charity runs youth clubs, educational courses, and a youth forum, empowering young people to develop skills, build confidence, and participate actively in their communities.
Engaging Events Drive Substantial Donations
Throughout the year, Barratt and David Wilson Homes organised a variety of fundraising events that encouraged employee participation and generated substantial funds. A charity golf tournament proved particularly successful, raising over £10,000, while a football competition contributed an additional £6,000 to the overall total. These activities not only raised money but also fostered team spirit and engagement among staff.
In addition to these events, the housebuilder hosted a charity clay pigeon shoot, inviting employees, stakeholders, and supporting businesses to take part. This event alone added another £17,000 to the fundraising pot, demonstrating the broad support garnered from the local business community and highlighting the collaborative effort behind the campaign.
Leadership Praise for Team Commitment
Tom Wright, Managing Director at Barratt and David Wilson Homes Eastern Counties, expressed his pride in the team's efforts, stating: “We’ve greatly enjoyed supporting The Men’s Shed Chelmsford and the Little Edi Foundation through our fundraising efforts in 2025. Along the way, we not only had a lot of fun, but also raised a significant sum for two incredibly deserving charities.”
He added: “I’m incredibly proud of the team for their commitment and enthusiasm, and I hope everyone involved enjoyed the memorable events we hosted in aid of these causes.” This sentiment reflects the positive impact of the fundraising activities on both the charities and the participants, reinforcing the value of corporate social responsibility in strengthening local communities.
