Big Local Works, a South Bermondsey-based charity with the goal to improve the local communities’ economic resilience, recently received a £1,000 donation from Barratt London. The housebuilder, who has just launched its new Bermondsey Heights development in SE15, provided the donation to help the charity meet its staffing and core costs ensuring it can continue to offer support to those building their independence and financial wellbeing.

The three main services offered by Big Local Works are preparing clients for employment or self-employment and offering ongoing support in these career prospects, providing necessary benefits and welfare support, and supporting local social entrepreneurs with access to funding and business support.

Luds van den Belt, Charity Manager at Big Local Works, adds: “We are grateful for Barratt London’s generous contribution which will enable us to continue to provide vital and life changing welfare support. We want to create a network to ensure that the most vulnerable are not left behind by the system and help our local community to build an economy where they can thrive in their work and personal lives.

Big Local Works was established in 2017 following the success of the ten-year Big Local South Bermondsey Partnership. The charity is deeply embedded in the local community and driven directly by the needs of those people. It offers a safe space, helping people to feel in control of their lives, and improve their self-confidence and mental health.

Steve Thompson, Managing Director at Barratt East London, comments: “In the current cost of living crisis where many are struggling financially, it is vital we support charities and services that equip those in our community with the tools needed to gain economic freedom, and put in place a support network that is missing in many vulnerable peoples’ lives.”

If you are interested in the services that Big Local Works provides or volunteering with the charity, please call 020 7237 5221 or visit www.biglocalworks.org.uk/.