Local homebuilder helps tackle loneliness through Sporting Memories

Local homebuilder Barratt David Wilson Homes Exeter proudly announces its recent contribution of £1,500 to Sporting Memories, a programme operated by Exeter City Community Trust (ECCT) the partner charity of Exeter City Football Club. This donation will directly fund the programme as it combats loneliness among older people in Exeter and surrounding areas.

Originally established to alleviate loneliness, particularly for individuals exhibiting early signs of dementia, Sporting Memories has witnessed remarkable growth over the past five years. The programme holds weekly gatherings for individuals aged 60-90, offering a platform for lively discussions on sporting news, engaging sports quizzes, and fostering camaraderie among attendees.

With regular sessions hosted at St James Park in Exeter, and Old Heathcoat School Community Centre in Tiverton, Sporting Memories now attracts between 30 to 40 participants per session, reflecting its impact on the community. While mostly attended by men at present, the programme welcomes female participants, with plans underway to establish a dedicated women's group.

Danny Harris, Head of Services at ECCT, said, "We are hugely grateful to Barratt David Wilson Homes Exeter for their donation. This support arrives at a pivotal moment for our organisation, especially with the ending of our previous source of funding. The contribution will go a long way in sustaining our operations, including covering staff expenses, venue rentals, and providing refreshments for attendees."

Notably, the donation facilitated three enriching day trips for Sporting Memories participants. These included visits to RAMM Exeter and to the Deer Park Country House in Honiton, which is home to an extensive collection of sporting memorabilia, deemed one of the most valuable in the world.

Nicki Reid, Sales Director at Barratt David Wilson Homes Exeter, said, “We believe in the importance of giving back to the communities in which we operate. So, we are delighted to support ECCT and their invaluable work promoting social inclusion among the elderly population. Our donation reflects our ongoing dedication to making a positive difference in Exeter and beyond."

Exeter City Community Trust remains committed to fostering inclusivity and community engagement. They are actively seeking new members and volunteers and focusing on how to engage more young people.

For more information about Exeter City Community Trust, including opportunities for involvement and support, visit www.exetercct.org

For more information about Sporting Memories, please visit www.exetercct.org/courses-events/sporting-memories.

Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes are currently building much-needed new homes in Devon, including at Victoria Heights in Exeter and Fairfax Heath in Tiverton. Wherever you are in your new home journey, Barratt Homes is here to support you and offers a range of schemes including Part Exchange Guarantee and the Key Worker Deposit Contribution Scheme.