Hertfordshire-based housebuilders Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes have announced their Charity of the Year for 2026. The housebuilders will partner with Hertfordshire charity DENS, pledging a year of fundraising and volunteering support to help tackle rising homelessness across Dacorum.
Founded in 2003, DENS supports people who are facing homelessness, poverty and social exclusion. The charity empowers individuals to take the next positive step in their lives, secure and maintain long-term housing solutions, and become active members of the community. DENS ensures individuals have access to temporary and short-term accommodation, as well as emergency food and services to develop skills and confidence.
The announcement comes amid growing demand. The number of people declared homeless in England rose by 8% last year, with a record number of families stuck in temporary accommodation[1]. The growing need for support is also being felt locally in Dacorum, where visits to the charity’s dedicated Day Centre – providing expert advice, showers, hot meals clean clothes and more – reached more than 4,500 in 2025.
Throughout 2026, Barratt David Wilson North Thames will deliver fundraising and volunteering activities to support DENS. Plans currently include a golf day and a gala dinner, as well as staff volunteering days with DENS, and smaller office and site-based activities.
Wendy Lewington, CEO at DENS, said: “At DENS we are committed to supporting individuals and families facing homelessness, poverty and social exclusion. Partnerships with organisations that share our commitment to strengthening local communities are vital in helping us continue to expand this work. We are extremely grateful for the support from Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes and are excited to be working together. Their involvement will help us raise awareness, generate vital funding and support the delivery of our services to those who need them most in our local area.”
Bill Beyzade, Managing Director at Barratt David Wilson North Thames, commented: “DENS provides invaluable support, ensuring that vulnerable members of the community receive the help they need. As a local housebuilder, our purpose is rooted in creating safe and secure places to live, so it’s important to us that we also support those who do not currently have a space to call home.
“As we continue to deliver new homes throughout Hertfordshire, including Hemel Hempstead, we believe it is essential to invest in and support the communities in which we build. We’re proud to be partnering with DENS and are looking forward to supporting its vital work throughout the year. Through fundraising initiatives and volunteering opportunities, we hope to play a meaningful role in helping DENS make a lasting difference for local people experiencing homelessness.”
Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes are currently building a range of new homes across Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, and Hertfordshire, including at Chaulden Meadows in Hemel Hempstead.