Barratt and David Wilson Homes has enabled East Essex Hackspace to fireproof one of its STEM workshop facilities following a £1,500 donation.
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B&DWEC – 23042414 – Tim Neobard, Founding Director of Hackspace, with Shea Doran from Barratt and DWH
The Hawkwell-based community workshop provides services such as metal and wood workshops, a wet lab, a computer lab with an electronics workbench and 3D printers, a dedicated laser room with a large bed laser cutter, and a social space with a projector for lectures.
The homebuilder’s contribution meant that the charity was able to fireproof its metal workshop. This has allowed it to greatly expand the workshops it can offer, including welding and forging in its own space, which previously had to be done outdoors.
What’s more, East Essex Hackspace is now planning sessions with youth groups to introduce them to welding and making useful tools.
Tim Neobard, Founding Trustee of East Essex Hackspace, said: “Barratt and David Wilson Homes’ support is invaluable as the money provided is free to be spent as required by the charity. In our case, capital for building improvements is very difficult to secure, and this injection has enabled numerous new activities.
“Whilst there is plenty of provision for athletic pursuits, East Essex Hackspace is one of a very short list of public institutions open to all who wish to undertake intellectual pursuits. We currently have over 300 members and have around 500 people through our doors on a weekly basis.
“We support a wide range of hobbies and see a very diverse section of the community. We are also part of the STEM ambassador programme and provide outreach to many education establishments and youth groups to inspire STEM activities.”
East Essex Hackspace, close to Barratt and David Wilson Homes’ High Elms Park development in Hullbridge, provides 24/7 workshop facilities. It helps to support several other charitable organisations such as the U3A (University of the 3rd Age), Junior Park Run and REMAP, providing custom solutions for people with disabilities.
Each week, it offers free workshops to the community including woodworking and turning, metalworking, music, and STEM subjects for kids. Separate to its own activities, the organisation provides access for hobbyists to work on their individual projects and get advice.
Barratt and David Wilson Homes’ donation was made as part of its Community Fund scheme via The Barratt Foundation, which is run by its parent company, Barratt Developments. It is designed to support national and local charities, large and small, across the UK to leave a legacy in the communities in which the housebuilder operates.
Tom Wright, Managing Director at Barratt and David Wilson Homes Eastern Counties, said: “East Essex Hackspace is doing great things for the local community and we’re proud that we can support the charity in its bid to nurture local talent in STEM with their facilities.
“Health and safety is of paramount importance with its vast activities, and it’s great to hear our donation has enabled the charity to increase fire safety at its facility.”
