Outward Bound centre gets slice of £1.6m
The Outward Bound Trust’s centre at Loch Eil, near Fort William, is to benefit from a share of £1.6 million in funding from UK national housebuilder, Barratt Developments.
The Barratt Foundation, part of Barratt Developments PLC, has announced a £1.6m three-year partnership with the trust.
The charity’s Loch Eil centre plays an important role in making positive changes in disadvantaged young people’s lives and their futures through providing a space for learning and adventures in the outdoors.
Just some of the activities on offer include exploring beaches, lochs and Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis.
The centre, with Barratt Developments’ support, is continuing to provide activities, accommodation and equipment to youth.
Additionally, Barratt Developments employees will directly support Outward Bound by becoming ambassadors and role models to young people on the centre’s residential experiences.
The new partnership builds on the previous work that Barratt and The Outward Bound Trust delivered together before the pandemic, such as the annual Big Barratt Hike fundraiser.
Nick Barrett, chief executive of The Outward Bound Trust, commented: ‘We are delighted that the Barratt Foundation is able to make such a huge contribution to our charity.
‘As we rebuild from the pandemic, the wonderful generosity of the Barratt Foundation will be truly transformational.
‘Young people need our support more now than ever before and this donation will equip them with the confidence, self-belief and resilience they need to succeed.’
Doug McLeod, managing director of Barratt Developments PLC Scotland, added: ‘We know what brilliant work The Outward Bound Trust does in helping young people to experience an outdoor adventure, giving them new skills and boosting social mobility.
‘However, during the pandemic they have not been able to deliver their normal courses.
‘This is why the Barratt Foundation is donating £1.6m to them, so they can continue to build the confidence in young people’s lives that is so urgently needed right now.’