Local Housebuilder Donates £1,500 to Children North East
L-R 1 L-R Joanne King (CNE) Rebecca Charlton, Samantha Swanston and Vicky Williamson (CNE)

On the 3rd of April 2023, Barratt Developments North East, a local housebuilder, made a donation of £1,500 to Children North East, which is the longest-established children’s charity in the region.

This contribution was part of the company’s Community Fund initiative. Children North East, which has been in operation for 130 years, strives to make a significant difference in the lives of infants, children, and young people, as well as their families, schools, and communities.

The organization provides a range of services, support, and programs that empower children, young people, and families to overcome challenges, take action, and achieve their full potential. Each year, the charity offers over one million minutes of assistance, and its Poverty Proofing team has helped over 28,000 individuals by gaining insights into their experiences of living in poverty and conducted more than 2,200 counselling sessions.

The charity revealed that child poverty continues to increase, with little sign of change on the horizon. Additionally, the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on families has pushed many to break point who have previously had no experience of financial hardship. This has created an increased need for ‘crisis’ support, such as access to food, support managing finances and organising benefits and warm spaces, as well as putting pressures on family relationships that increase needs for services such as mental health, wellness and domestic abuse support.

The cost-of-living pressures have also impacted donations, which means that the charity has seen an increased need and increased costs, but reduced income from fundraising.

Barratt Developments’ donation will support in delivering life-changing services to those who need them, when they need them. Without the support of donations, many North East communities would be left without a lifeline, from its domestic abuse support group to the award-winning allotment that gives children a space to play, learn, laugh and thrive. In making the donation, Barratt Developments is not only supporting the charity with its crucial work, but is also encouraging other organisations to step forward during what is a financially challenging time for the charity.

Carl Sobolewski, Managing Director at Barratt Developments North East, commented:

“The team at Children North East do really incredible and vital work within the region, and we’re pleased to have been able to support them during what is a particularly financially-challenging period. We truly hope that our donation will make a difference to their services, and we encourage other businesses to follow in our footsteps and also donate what they can to this hugely important charity.”

Janet Cairns, Growth and Engagement Director at Children North East, said:

“We are truly grateful to Barratt Developments North East for their generous donation. Our services rely heavily on the generosity of businesses and individuals across the region, and this donation will help us to continue to offer life-saving support to young people and families all across the region.”

For information on how to support Children North East, please visit: www.children-ne.org.uk

Barratt Developments, which includes Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes brands, offer a range of homes across the North East region. For more information about properties available, please visit: www.barratthomes.co.uk/new-homes/north-east/


Get Sunderland Magazine in your inbox.

* indicates required

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here