For 70 years the Lighthouse Charity has been delivering life changing and life saving support to the construction community, but it is now facing one of the toughest years in its history as demand for its services reaches record levels.
As we approach the busiest and most challenging quarter of the year, the charity is launching an urgent appeal to raise £200,000 to ensure it can continue to meet the increased demand for support from across the sector.
So far this year the number of families reaching out to Lighthouse for financial, emotional and physical wellbeing support has increased by a staggering 51%. Food deliveries are up 65% and the charity has funded over 7,000 counselling sessions, providing immediate support to those who are struggling.
The resources required to meet this unprecedented demand are under pressure. The construction industry is facing pressures that come from a tough economy, and unpredictable external factors that impact both companies and individuals alike. Accordingly, the charity estimates that it needs an additional £200,000 to ensure their impactful services are maintained.
Sarah Bolton, CEO of the Lighthouse Charity, said: “The demand for all areas of support continues to grow. Our 24/7 helpline and 1:1 online chat service provides a beacon of hope for those who have nowhere else to turn and so far, we have been able to respond to this unprecedented demand.
“Every day our team are hearing first hand about the incredible pressures people are under; workers who are unable to cover the cost of even basic necessities, travel costs and people who are trying to cope with caring for sick children and relatives.”
She continued: “Our workforce is battling against relentless cost increases in materials, housing, fuel, food, and energy costs, all whilst working long hours, often away from home and in challenging environments.”
In the first seven months of this year the Lighthouse Charity supported over 6,000 families and delivered over 8,000 meals.
“These food shops aren’t just for people unable to work through illness or injury.” Sarah added. “We’re receiving calls from people who are in full-time work but still can’t afford to feed their family, as well as paying for increased fuel, housing and energy costs.
“We’re also having to step in and fill the gap that’s being left by statutory rights and provisions to help people get through the week, our workforce simply can’t absorb the additional costs and they need immediate help.
Sarah warned: “It’s a perfect storm and we need to act now. We need the support of the industry to ensure that we can continue to deliver our vital services.
“To achieve that we need to raise £200,000 by Christmas and we’re urging our industry leaders to join together in a unified force to support our community. This is an urgent appeal from the heart for donations that will help us deliver a life changing and life saving difference to someone today.”
Individuals and business organisations can donate today via the dedicated Winter Appeal webpage, which also details how donor’s money is spent and the impact it makes to someone in need:
If you or anyone you know is struggling, reach out for 24/7 free and confidential support:
24/7 Helplines: 0345 605 1956 (UK), 1800 939 122 (ROI)
24/7 1:1 Online chat – accessible via the charity’s website www.lighthousecharity.org and through the Lighthouse Charity app.
