Two worthy Norwich groups helping to keep older people happy and healthy through the Covid-19 pandemic have been selected to receive funding support from Persimmon Anglia.

Able2B and Angelica’s Rainbow have each been awarded £1,000 from the Community Champions fund, which makes two donations of up to £1,000 every month.

The match-funding initiative seeks to support grassroots groups and charities in areas where the company is building and its online application form can be found at www.persimmonhomes.com/charity

John Eldridge, director in charge at Persimmon Anglia, said: “Voluntary organisations and small local charities play a vital role in supporting our communities, so we are delighted to be able to help them achieve their aims.”

During the lockdown, Able2B has delivered virtual fitness classes for local care homes, supported by trained medical staff who are able to design programmes to suit all abilities, including people living with dementia. The Community Champions funding will help the community interest company to continue the service and expand it to elderly people in their own homes.

Angelica’s Rainbow is a not-for-profit charitable enterprise that provide therapeutic animal encounters for the elderly. They take rescue animals into care homes, sheltered accommodation and day centres to support the mental wellbeing and happiness of residents. The donation from Persimmon will fund addition equipment to allow home visits to more isolated people.

Persimmon Homes Anglia operates new build homes developments across Norfolk from its headquarters at Broadland Business Park in Norwich.