Persimmon Homes Anglia has come to the aid of a gardening-based self-help group in Lowestoft, with a donation towards a new greenhouse.

Women Like Me is a voluntary organisation set up to help local women build their confidence and personal wellbeing. Activities include allotments, where members join weekly sessions, and Garden Angels in which women volunteer to clear and tidy gardens for other people.

According to spokeswoman Claire Taylor-Haigh, the need for mutual support has never been greater: “Taking care of our mental health has always been important but, over the last year, it has become increasingly difficult for some many and we have many new referrals seeking our help.”

“We did have a greenhouse, but it was damaged beyond repair last year. We feel it’s vital to have one, so we can produce more plants for more women, and to keep each allotment supplied with the relevant crops.”

Persimmon Anglia agreed to make a £500 donation towards replacing the greenhouse and allow Women Like Me to continue its work in the community. Find out more about the charity at www.women-like-me.co.uk

John Eldridge, Persimmon Anglia managing director designate, said: “We appreciate that voluntary groups such as this have struggled throughout the pandemic.  As well as facing an increase in demand, Women Like Me lost one of their prime assets, their greenhouse, which is clearly integral to what they do. We are pleased to help them with a donation from our Community Champions fund.”

Under this pioneering programme, the company invites one-off funding applications from community-based good causes. Every month, each region selects two of the organisations to support in this way. To find out more or apply for support, go to www.persimmonhomes.com/charity

PICTURED: (from left) Maxine, Claire, Ojay and Donna, from Women Like Me, celebrate receiving £1,000 of Community Champions funding from Persimmon Homes Anglia.