Senior representatives from Kent housebuilder Barratt David Wilson Homes participated in the Great Tommy Sleep Out, raising over £20k for veterans facing homelessness.
On Thursday 26th March, Will Walsh, Managing Director and Natalie Perry, Sales & Marketing Director, joined the Kent Chairman of the Royal British Veterans Enterprise (RBVE) for the fundraising challenge. Barratt’s team also included Laura Barnett, Commercial Director, Alex Evans, Finance Director, and David Lockyear, Technical Director. The group spent the night in a 100-metre reconstructed trench at the Centre for Experimental Military Archaeology in Detling.
The annual fundraising event, which takes place in March throughout the UK, raises vital funds for the RBVE by replicating for one night the daily reality faced by many veterans. The charity, which has been active for over a century, creates jobs, provides homes, and builds communities for over 340 veterans and their families. Aiming to empower ex-forces to rebuild their lives, RBVE’s support reaches veterans of all ages, whether they need help with homelessness, raising a family, or challenging health conditions.
Will Walsh, Managing Director at Barratt Redrow, comments: “When the opportunity arose to support the Royal British Veterans Enterprise, we jumped at the chance. Our veterans risk their lives in service to our country, yet so often they leave the forces without the support they need. RBVE makes a real difference to veterans and their families, creating jobs and building homes to help our heroes rebuild their lives. With the final fundraising figure standing at over £20k, I am incredibly proud of the team and grateful for our supporters.”
The Kent Chairman of the Royal British Enterprise comments: “March is the month when we begin to feel the weather change from winter, which is often RBVE’s busiest time of year. During this period, veterans experiencing homelessness battle the cold, mental health difficulties and hunger. The money raised by supporters of the Great Tommy Sleep Out will help fund emergency accommodation, specialist support with mental health and employment, as well as essential items like clothing and toiletries, enabling us to support those who need it most.”
Participants in the challenge were welcomed to the centre and provided an immersive tour of WW1 trench life, then invited to build their shelter for the evening. Speakers at the event included the RBVE Chairman, followed by guest speaker Ash Alexander-Cooper OBE, a former specialist military unit commander. The event gave participants a glimpse into the reality of homelessness, while raising vital funds for the RBVE to continue their lifesaving work.
