Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity reaches a third of its £1 million target

A staggering £320,031 has been raised so far by the construction industry to respond to the recent cry for help from the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity.

Just over five weeks ago and in response to the COVID 19 pandemic and the catastrophic impact it was having on the construction community, the charity launched its Construction Workers Family Crisis Appeal

Hearing the cry for help, the construction industry has done what it does best, rolled up its sleeves, pulled together and raised almost a third of the £1 million target.  Donations have been received across the country from both individuals and organisations who have stepped up to support the only charity that provides physical, financial and mental wellbeing to the construction workforce and their families.

Bill Hill, CEO of the Lighthouse Construction Industry Charity, said: "We are absolutely astounded by the magnificent response we've received so far. We've received huge support from the House Builders Federation and also from five tier one construction companies, the most recent of which is from Ferrovial Agroman who have made a significant contribution to our appeal."  

Karl Goose, Managing Director, Ferrovial Agroman UK & Ireland, said: "Considering the sector that we work in, it makes sense to partner with The Lighthouse Club by contributing to its dedicated Construction Workers' Crisis Fund.

"Nevertheless, that is not the reason why we have selected the Lighthouse Club. We have done so because it delivers such a committed and vital service for the construction community and their families, and because the funds will immediately be available to really help those who need it most.

"As time progresses, we are understanding more fully the actual impact the pandemic is having on the people that keep this industry going and it is tragic. The Lighthouse Club is a beacon for many and I am immensely proud to be able to support its efforts."

However, with calls to the charity's Construction Industry Helpline up by over 55% compared to this time last year, the appeal is ongoing and the charity has a long way to go before they reach its £1 million target. Its event calendar has been decimated, meaning that a huge proportion of its income has disappeared at a time when the industry needs its support the most.  

Hill added: "Calls to our 24/7 Construction Industry Helpline have been desperately sad and we need to do our utmost to ensure our construction community knows we are here for them. It is our mission and moral obligation to ensure that no worker feels alone in a crisis.

"Sometimes words just aren't enough but we'd like to say a huge thank you again from the bottom of our hearts to those that have contributed to our crisis appeal and helped us to make a real difference to our construction families in crisis."