The Lighthouse Charity has launched an urgent appeal to raise £200,000 as it faces one of the most challenging periods in its 70-year history, with demand for its life-changing and life-saving services reaching record levels.
As the charity approaches the busiest and most demanding quarter of the year, it is calling on the construction industry to rally behind its Winter Appeal to ensure it can continue supporting workers and their families through times of crisis.
So far this year, the number of families seeking financial, emotional and physical wellbeing support has increased by 51%, while food deliveries have risen by 65%. The charity has also funded more than 7,000 counselling sessions, providing immediate support to those facing significant personal and financial pressures.
The resources needed to meet this unprecedented demand are under increasing strain. At the same time, the construction industry continues to grapple with economic challenges and external factors that are impacting businesses and workers alike. As a result, the charity estimates it requires an additional £200,000 to maintain its vital services.
Sarah Bolton, CEO of the Lighthouse Charity, said: “The demand for all areas of support continues to grow. Our 24/7 helpline and 1:1 online chat service provides a beacon of hope for those who have nowhere else to turn and so far, we have been able to respond to this unprecedented demand.
“Every day our team are hearing first-hand about the incredible pressures people are under; workers who are unable to cover the cost of even basic necessities, travel costs and people who are trying to cope with caring for sick children and relatives.
“Our workforce is battling against relentless cost increases in materials, housing, fuel, food and energy costs, all whilst working long hours, often away from home and in challenging environments.”
During the first seven months of the year, the Lighthouse Charity supported more than 6,000 families and delivered over 8,000 meals.
Bolton added: “These food shops aren’t just for people unable to work through illness or injury. We’re receiving calls from people who are in full-time work but still can’t afford to feed their family, as well as paying for increased fuel, housing and energy costs.
“We’re also having to step in and fill the gap that’s being left by statutory rights and provisions to help people get through the week. Our workforce simply can’t absorb the additional costs and they need immediate help.
“It’s a perfect storm and we need to act now. We need the support of the industry to ensure that we can continue to deliver our vital services.
“To achieve that, we need to raise £200,000 by Christmas and we’re urging industry leaders to unite in support of our community. This is an urgent appeal from the heart for donations that will help us make a life-changing and life-saving difference to someone today.”
Individuals and organisations can donate through the charity’s dedicated Winter Appeal webpage, which explains how donations are used and the impact they have on people in need.
Anyone who is struggling, or knows someone who may need support, can access the Lighthouse Charity’s free and confidential services 24 hours a day. Support is available via the UK helpline on 0345 605 1956, the Republic of Ireland helpline on 1800 939 122, through the 1:1 online chat service at www.lighthousecharity.org, or via the Lighthouse Charity app.