Persimmon donates again to children's group

The Cornwall & West Devon region behind the Saltram Meadows development in Plymstock has backed a local children’s group for the second time.

Persimmon Homes Cornwall & West Devon handed the £1,000 cheque to PEM Disability Children's Club at their annual Barbeque and Awards Ceremony in August.

The popular event was held at the ground of Elburton Villa FC – another recipient of funding from Persimmon’s Community Champions scheme – and was attended by the local Member of Parliament, councillors, and the community.

Founded by two Royal Navy veterans, the club was born from a simple but powerful idea: service doesn't end when the uniform comes off. After dedicating over 40 years of service between them, founders Lee Ellis and Luke Monnington sought a new mission — one rooted in compassion, community, and opportunity.

What began as a grassroots effort has grown into a thriving volunteer-led sports club designed specifically for children with disabilities. The Club is a place where youngsters with pan disabilities can come together to play a range of sports and take part in other activities, having fun in a safe environment twice a month.

The volunteer-run club also puts on fun-packed events litter picks, bouncy castle play days, and visits to recreation centres such as soft play, swimming pools, and adventure parks.

Persimmon’s Community Champions programme sees £700,000 go to good causes and much-valued organisations across Britain each year. Recent local recipients include Plymouth Hospitals Charity, Argyle Community Foundation, Plymouth Night Patrol, St Luke’s Hospice, Mutley Detachment Devon ACF, and Argyle Pride.

Persimmon Homes Cornwall & West Devon’s Head of Customer Care, Lisa Morrish – who presented the cheque on behalf of Persimmon said:

“PEM is an amazing charity, helping children pursue love of sport giving them the opportunity to realise their potential – a truly wonderful cause and one that deserves all the support it can get.

“So, it was a privilege to have been given the opportunity to spend time with such inspiring youngsters at PEM Disability Children’s Group’s annual BBQ & Awards ceremony and to show Persimmon’s support for such a great organisation once again through this latest donation.

“Days like these remind us how important it is to support young people, encourage ambition, and create opportunities for them to thrive. Seeing the smiles, determination, and talent on display today was inspirational, it was lovely seeing the children collect their well-deserved trophies and medals.”

Lee Ellis, Co-founder of PEM Disability Children’s Club, added:

“We are absolutely delighted and incredibly grateful to Persimmon for their generous donation. As our largest contributor to date, their support will have a tremendous impact on the children and families who rely on PEM Disability Children’s Club.

“Many of our children live in Persimmon-built communities, making this partnership even more special. As a charity that provides all of its services free of charge, we depend entirely on the generosity of local businesses and community champions such as Persimmon.

“On behalf of our children, their families and our volunteers, thank you to them for making a real difference."