Homebuilder makes donation to help keep RNLI afloat

Local homebuilder Barratt David Wilson Homes Exeter has donated £1,500 to support the RNLI’s efforts in making Devon’s beaches and waters safer.

The Barratt Developments community fund initiative looks to support those causes which have a positive impact within their local communities. This contribution is aimed at bolstering the lifesaving efforts of the RNLI and further strengthening their vital services along the coast of Devon.

The RNLI have been dedicated to saving lives at sea for nearly 200 years, operating lifeboat stations and lifeguarded beaches across north and south Devon.

The RNLI operates 24/7, providing critical lifeboat and lifeguard services, coastal safety, research and education programmes throughout the year. Their operations rely on volunteers who respond at a moment’s notice, often working in difficult and sometimes dangerous environments.

The homebuilder’s donation will help fund the running costs of Torbay RNLI, ensuring that its volunteers can continue to provide their integral services across the communities.

Jason Luff, RNLI community manager for Devon, said: "We’re really grateful that Barratt David Wilson Homes Exeter has chosen to support the RNLI, and in particular Torbay RNLI. Our volunteers at Torbay RNLI launched their lifeboats 116 times and aided 125 people in 2022, so this donation will really help keep our lifeboats ready and our volunteers trained and equipped, to continue to save lives at sea."

Nicki Reid, sales director for Barratt David Wilson Homes Exeter said: “The dedication and courage demonstrated by the RNLI volunteers is awe-inspiring and we are proud to be supporting the organisation during their busiest period. The RNLI make an invaluable contribution to our community and save thousands of lives across our coastlines.

“The RNLI plays an instrumental role not just in times of crisis but also in helping to prevent accidents from happening. We are warmed that this donation is going to contribute towards continuing their efforts and spreading awareness of sea safety across the region.”

Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes are currently building properties at a number of new developments across Devon including at Victoria Heights in Alphington, Okement Park in Okehampton and  Berry Acres in Paignton.