A homes developer has made a £1,500 donation to Care after Combat, a Newark-based charity supporting military veterans involved in the justice system.

Founded in 2014, Care after Combat provides mentoring and rehabilitation for veterans in prison and during their transition back into the community.

The £1,500 donation from David Wilson Homes will go towards essential operational costs, including the running of the charity’s confidential helpline — a lifeline for veterans in crisis.

With many ex-service personnel facing challenges such as difficulties adjusting to civilian life, post-traumatic stress disorder, and mental health struggles, the charity offers one-to-one support through trained mentors — many of whom are veterans themselves — supporting them to successfully reintegrate into society and rebuild their lives with dignity.

Amy Barnett, executive assistant at Care after Combat, said: “We were genuinely surprised and deeply grateful when David Wilson Homes got in touch to say we’d been chosen for its Community Fund.

“This generous donation will help us keep our helpline running, ensuring veterans in crisis have someone to turn to, day or night.

“Support like this not only helps us maintain our vital services, but it also shows veterans that their service is valued and their futures matter. We’re thankful for this recognition and support.”

Since becoming operational in 2015, the organisation has mentored over 1,000 veterans and supported more than 3,000 individuals navigating the justice system. In 2022-23 alone, it delivered 465 prison forums and since 2020 has distributed over 45,000 activity packs to veterans in custody.

David Wilson Homes made the donation as part of its Community Fund initiative via The Barratt Redrow Foundation. Each month, the scheme supports charities chosen by the housebuilder’s employees.

John Reddington, managing director at David Wilson Homes East Midlands, said: “Care after Combat delivers vital support to veterans facing incredibly difficult circumstances, and its impact in the local area and beyond is hugely significant.

“Through our Community Fund, we’re proud to help keep its helpline running and support the continuation of its mentoring services.”

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