Home improvement retailer Wickes announced an 80% year-on-year increase in the number of charities and community groups applying for free products through their community programme. 50% of those applying are schools and 27% are community spaces and gardens.
The increase in demand is indicative of a continuing trend as this sector struggles with the cost of living.
A recent survey carried out by local community investment company, Neighbourly, reported that the past year has brought immense challenges for communities. From the cost-of-living crisis to funding constraints, local charities and good causes have been at the forefront, tirelessly supporting those in need. This latest set of results provides a snapshot into the realities of what is happening in our community.
Some of the key findings from the Neighbourly survey, carried out with over 1,000 charities and community organisations revealed:
47% say they’re turning people away due to capacity or funding limitations
88% have seen negative impacts on communities as a result of local council funding cuts
79% don’t foresee improvements in the cost-of-living crisis
The Wickes initiative provides invaluable assistance to local communities across the country, donating essential products to help with the maintenance and transformation of community spaces.
Gary Kibble, chief marketing and digital officer at Wickes, said: “Our company purpose, to help the nation feel house proud, extends to our communities. The increase in demand is indicative of the challenges that have been identified in the Neighbourly survey. Since the programme started in 2022 we have supported over 3000 projects with products and skills, the highest demand being for gardening projects of which 63% are going into schools to support wellbeing, followed by products to help with renovations and maintenance. We aim to help take the pressure off their fundraising efforts and we know our support is making a real difference to them.”
Isaac Ngugi, a supporter of Advocacy For All said: “We are bowled over by the generosity of Wickes to get these planters into action. Advocacy For All knows the importance of the allotment for our members with learning disabilities and autistic spectrum conditions. This will give some of our less physically able members to reap the benefits of what an allotment can offer both physically and mentally. It is a great place for our members to congregate, socialise and learn some new skills.”
Tom Sefton, the poverty lLead at Good Company, said: “The products donated by Wickes included secondary glazing film, various draught excluders and heat reflective radiator foil. These were handed out at group workshops that we have been running in Epsom, Leatherhead, and Tadworth for food bank clients and other local families most affected by the cost-of-living crisis. We wanted to show people that making small changes like this can significantly reduce their energy usage.”
Stephen Hudson, Church Wardon at St Mary’s Church Foodbank, said: “Thanks to Wickes for their kind and generous gift for our cupboards in the Church. The Foodbank is an integral part of thechurch and village of Great Massingham and was started during the Covid lockdown in 2020. Its success has been overwhelming”
The Wickes Community Programme is open to all charities and community organisations seeking to transform or maintain their spaces. By providing free Wickes products, the programme aims to support the creation of enriching environments that foster learning and community engagement.
For more information on how to apply for support from the Wickes Community Programme, please visit www.wickes.co.uk/community-
