In a heartening collaboration, Barratt Homes Bristol MD, Rob Hart, recently visited Doorway in Chippenham to reveal a transformative allotment project, made possible by Barratt’s generous £26,000 donation.
Doorway, a Wiltshire-based homelessness charity, is set to launch this initiative to provide a community space and promote well-being benefits through hands-on activities in nature.
The project addresses the challenges faced by hundreds of homeless and marginalised adults who often feel unseen in small towns like Chippenham and rural areas across Wiltshire. Instead of sleeping on the streets, many resort to ‘sofa surfing,’ finding temporary shelter with friends or acquaintances.
Doorway’s CEO, Jo Kitching, expressed enthusiasm about the impact the allotment project would have on their guests, saying, “This new project is going to be an amazing offer for our guests. They go from feeling invisible to feeling stigmatised. Being part of the community on the local allotments, working with others in a safe space to nurture and grow produce will make a real difference to them.”
The allotment will be managed by a Doorway team member and trained volunteers, with guests contributing their love and knowledge of gardening to the weekly sessions. Jo Kitching explained that once the outdoor space is established, it will be used for additional workshops, broadening the project’s impact.
Jo Kitching emphasized the importance of donations like Barratt’s, stating, “Every penny we receive can be ploughed into something positive and always translates into something worthwhile.” The funds will not only cover the allotment project but also contribute to other essential costs, including food, rough sleeping packs, and volunteer training.
Barratt’s Rob Hart acknowledged the power of Doorway’s work, stating, “It’s a real privilege for us to think our donation has helped, not least by driving forward the allotment project and all the good it will do. We couldn’t be prouder. The work Doorway do – their thinking about how and why they deliver support – makes so much sense, as well as a real difference.”
This collaboration exemplifies the positive impact that businesses like Barratt can have on local charities, making a meaningful difference in the communities they serve. Barratt’s donation not only supports the allotment project but also contributes to the broader mission of Doorway in providing vital support and services to those in need.
To learn more about Doorway and its initiatives or to explore ways to support the charity, visit https://doorwayproject.org.uk/.
