Swinging for Support: Norwich Housebuilder’s Golf Tournament Raises Thousands for Autism Charity

In a wonderful display of community spirit and corporate social responsibility, a Norwich-based housebuilder recently hosted a charity golf tournament that made a significant impact for a worthy cause. Barratt and David Wilson Homes Anglia organized the event at Barnham Broom Golf Club in Norwich, bringing together 72 golfers from their staff, suppliers, and sub-contractors to raise funds for Autism Anglia, their designated Charity of the Year. The friendly competition saw Norfolk Drywall taking first place and receiving a trophy, but the real winner was the autism charity, which received an impressive £8,288 from the event—an amount that will be doubled through matching funds from the housebuilder’s parent company, Barratt Redrow.

The success of this golf tournament represents more than just a financial contribution; it highlights the power of businesses to create meaningful change in their communities. Autism Anglia, based in Colchester, provides essential services across Essex, Suffolk, and Norfolk, focusing on improving the lives of autistic individuals and their families. Their comprehensive approach includes educational programs, adult residential care facilities, supported living arrangements, and community outreach initiatives. The organization takes pride in delivering personalized support that allows individuals on the autism spectrum to flourish in ways that honor their unique needs and strengths. Beyond direct services, Autism Anglia operates specialized schools, provides professional training on autism, and offers advocacy programs designed to empower those with autism.

Anna Rogers, a representative from Autism Anglia, expressed deep gratitude for the housebuilder’s support, noting that events like the golf tournament serve dual purposes. “We are so grateful to Barratt and David Wilson Homes for not only arranging days like this to fundraise for us, but also creating opportunities to raise awareness of Autism Anglia and our services,” she said. Rogers emphasized that these occasions help promote greater acceptance of autistic individuals in communities and workplaces while simultaneously reaching potential beneficiaries who might need support for themselves or family members. This awareness-raising aspect is invaluable, as it helps break down stigmas and misconceptions about autism while connecting people with resources they might not otherwise discover.

The relationship between Barratt and David Wilson Homes Anglia and Autism Anglia extends beyond this single event. As the developer’s designated Charity of the Year for 2025, the autism organization will continue to benefit from various corporate fundraising initiatives throughout the coming year. This sustained commitment demonstrates how businesses can form meaningful partnerships with charitable organizations, providing not just one-off donations but ongoing support that allows charities to plan and develop their services with greater confidence. The matched funding arrangement with parent company Barratt Redrow further amplifies the impact, effectively doubling the community benefit generated by each fundraising effort.

For the housebuilder, the annual golf day has become a centerpiece of their philanthropic calendar. Simon Wood, managing director at Barratt and David Wilson Homes Anglia, described it as “a fantastic occasion and a highlight of our fundraising calendar.” His comments reflect the enthusiasm that many companies now bring to their corporate social responsibility efforts, recognizing that giving back is not just good for communities but also builds positive relationships with staff, contractors, and customers. Wood expressed particular appreciation for the participants, acknowledging that their generosity would “go a long way towards supporting the important work of Autism Anglia.”

This successful charity golf tournament exemplifies how local businesses can create ripple effects of positive change in their communities. By bringing together various stakeholders—employees, business partners, and suppliers—for a day of enjoyable competition in support of a worthy cause, Barratt and David Wilson Homes Anglia has helped strengthen the social fabric of the Norwich area while providing tangible support to vulnerable individuals. The substantial funds raised will help Autism Anglia continue its vital work across East Anglia, ensuring that autistic individuals receive the specialized support they need to live fulfilling lives. As the partnership between the housebuilder and the charity continues through 2025, the impact of their collaboration will undoubtedly grow, benefiting countless families across the region.