A London-based youth charity is one step closer to its fundraising target for a summer camp aimed at vulnerable children thanks to a regional housebuilder.

Youth Space has been backed with £1,000 from Persimmon Homes North London, which will contribute to the funding of a week-long summer camp aimed at providing therapeutic respite breaks for 95 disadvantaged children in London.

The scheme will see users partake in a multi-sports programme, enjoy enriching recreational activities and develop valuable life skills.

The donation comes courtesy of the housebuilder’s Community Champions scheme, which gives away up to £1,000 each to two charities every month.

Rebecca Ekstien, spokeswoman for Youth Space, said: “We are thrilled that Persimmon Homes North London has generously gifted us this donation. We are now very close to achieving our target.

“For too many children living in poverty, the holidays are characterised by boredom, frustration and isolation – but we hope to change that through the summer camp. This is a rare opportunity for our users as 80 per cent of our beneficiaries have never been out of London and most have never participated even in local playschemes. Family trips are seldom and sparse.

“Most of the children referred to us have social, behavioural or learning difficulties that are compounded by poverty. At the summer camp, children can relax in a rural environment, make friends, and develop independence and confidence helping to improve their emotional health to make them more resilient to deal with their many challenges.

“By participating in our project, children will come home empowered to start the new school year on a fresh, confident footing.”

Damian Seddon, director-in-charge at Persimmon Homes North London, said: “Youth Space provides an amazing experience for many disadvantaged children, so we are delighted to be able to support them in this way.”

To nominate and to find out about the terms and conditions, visit www.persimmonhomes.com/charity