Schools and local groups are being invited to join the second phase of its initiative to build bat boxes.

STARK UK is inviting local schools, community groups, tradespeople and businesses to join the second phase of its Homes for Nature campaign, helping to build bat boxes to support hibernation this winter.

The leading builders’ merchants and materials distributor is rolling out the campaign across its brands Jewson, JP Corry and Normans. This call to action builds on the successful start of STARK UK’s Homes for Nature campaign, which saw local schools, youth groups, Girl Guides and other community groups creating habitats for hedgehogs ahead of their hibernation season.

Participants shared pictures of their creations on social media, using the hashtag #HomesforNature, which has already generated more than 5,000 interactions.

STARK UK is donating free materials such as non-treated wooden pallets, making them available for participants to collect from any UK Jewson, JP Corry and Normans branch – and colleagues will be available to provide advice on building biodiverse habitats to help wildlife in the colder months and throughout the year.

The Homes for Nature campaign is another example of how STARK UK is living its commitment to environmental sustainability as it continues to implement its plans, which have also seen the roll-out of sustainability ambassadors and sustainability centres across the company’s network of more than 400 local branches.

Sabrina Passley, Head of Sustainability at STARK UK, said: “The first phase of our Homes for Nature initiative has been a huge success, with schools, community groups and customers visiting their local branch to collect materials and insights to create their own wildlife habitats.

“We are keen to build on this success with the next phase of the campaign, shifting our focus to bats and encouraging people to create safe, welcoming shelters for them to hibernate during the winter months. Whether you work on a construction site and want to create a safe space for bats to roost away from the main site, or you’re a local community group looking for a fun, impactful project to bring people together, our Jewson, JP Corry and Normans colleagues can assist with materials and knowledge to guide you.”