We've stepped in to help the NHS by donating hundreds of much-needed face masks and gloves.

We've gathered all of the spare PPE normally used on our building sites and handed it over to be utilised by doctors and nurses on the frontline, as the battle against Covid-19 intensifies. Donations include face masks, latex gloves, goggles, glasses and hand sanitiser. The equipment has been handed straight to local hospitals. The NHS is in desperate need of all safety gear due to a global shortage, forcing some hospitals to try and source equipment independently to keep employees safe from infection.

Dave Jenkinson, Chief Executive, said: “I am delighted that our regional businesses right across the country have stepped up and donated this equipment to hospitals in need. Our NHS is doing a tremendous job in this fight against coronavirus. We all appreciate the work the doctors and nurses are doing to look after people in need and we’re pleased that we can help in this small way. They deserve to be as protected as possible.”

In order to protect the health of our employees, we've taken the decision to commence an orderly closedown of building work and temporarily close sales offices across the country. During the crisis, we're supporting groups which benefit people aged over-70 with £64,000 of grants every month through our Community Champions scheme. Established in 2015, the scheme gives away two grants of £1,000 in each of the 32 operating regions every month and it has been decided that the money will be targeted at over-70s groups for the foreseeable future. Applications for Community Champions can be made at www.persimmonhomes.com/charity.

Mr Jenkinson added: “We are determined to do whatever we can to help the country through the difficult weeks and months ahead. As a management team we are considering ways we can do that.”