Supporting tradespeople through the toughest times

National construction charity Band of Builders has teamed up with professional tools brand DEWALT® in a partnership that will provide help and support to tradespeople impacted by illness, injury or financial crisis across the UK.

Band of Builders (BoB) is a registered charity that aids members of the construction industry  when times get tough through hands-on support, as well as providing help and advice  through its extensive online community. The organisation was founded by tradesman Addam  Smith in 2016 to assist his friend and fellow builder, Keith Ellick, after he was diagnosed with  terminal cancer. Addam recruited volunteers from around the country to ensure that the 

home renovations Keith had originally commenced were completed for his family. Since  then, the charity has undertaken numerous projects throughout England, Scotland and  Wales to support trade professionals facing adversity or hardship. 

As part of the collaboration, DEWALT will supply tools and equipment for volunteers to use  during construction or renovation projects, and the company will also engage in a  programme of activities throughout the year to raise vital funds and drive awareness of the  charity’s essential work. 

Gavin Crane, chair of the Board of Trustees at Band of Builders, commented, “We’re excited  to welcome DEWALT as a partner this year. Having the backing of a global brand in this way  will undoubtedly strengthen our profile and drive awareness on a larger scale than ever  before. Our aim is to reach as many construction workers across the country as possible and  having DEWALT championing our cause will enable us to communicate our message to a  significantly larger audience. Most importantly, it will also allow us to help a greater number  of beneficiaries over the coming months and years.” 

Gavin added, “The pandemic has hampered many of our fundraising activities and projects over the last twelve months, with countless events postponed or cancelled. With DEWALT’s  support, we will be able to resume work almost immediately, and our goal is to complete  many more projects throughout 2021.”  

Chris Wayne, group marketing manager at DEWALT, said, “We are passionate about  supporting the professional trade community and are eager to start work with Band of  Builders – a hugely inspiring charity that is run by tradespeople, for tradespeople. This  

partnership is an important opportunity for DEWALT to give back to individuals within the  industry who have backed our brand for many years. Our teams are extremely keen to  participate on a personal level, to boost awareness and fundraising efforts, and provide a  helping hand to professionals through the toughest of times.” 

The next BoB project, Rob’s Project, will begin on March 13 at the home of a Solihull dad-of four left paralysed after a fall at home. More information can be found at www.bandofbuilders.org