Gibbs & Dandy has unveiled a nationwide charitable partnership with children’s charity, Barnardo’s.

The builders’ merchant has joined forces with Barnardo’s to support disadvantaged and vulnerable children across the UK, with a focus on young people who have spent their childhood in care.

Working closely with representatives from Barnardo’s, Gibbs & Dandy will be combining its expertise with fundraising to make a difference.

As well as hosting charity fundraisers over the year, the merchant will be extending its network of employment, training and skills service to ensure that young people, including care leavers, don’t miss out on the support, advice and work opportunities available to those from different backgrounds.

Helen Miles from Barnardo’s said: “Gibbs & Dandy’s support of our Care Leavers programme will play a huge role in transforming the lives of young adults nationwide.

“Young people in care are the most vulnerable children in our society - almost two in every three children in the care system enter it because they have been abused or neglected – and they need our help.

“The statistics for young people who spend their childhood in care are pretty tough: a quarter of all homeless people in the UK were in care as a child, and 24% of prisoners in England and Wales have experienced the care system at some point. And crucially, there’s very little support for young people aged 16-21 who are leaving care, which is often when they need it most. This is where our Care Leavers programme steps in.

“Not only will Gibbs & Dandy’s nationwide fundraising drive support and expand the Care Leavers programme to reach more young people than ever before, but the company will also be offering practical experience, providing new opportunities that can be all too rare for these kids.

“From work experience to placements and apprenticeships, these hands-on experiences will give them a real taste of the industry and set them on the path to a skilled and successful career.

“We’re thrilled to be working in partnership with Gibbs & Dandy and its customers who we know are incredibly generous.”

Neil Lawrence, managing director of Gibbs & Dandy, added: We’re very pleased to be able to help raise vital funds for Barnardo’s Care Leavers scheme.

“Our customers are a caring bunch and are always fantastic at getting behind the good causes being supported by their local branch.

“We know that they’ll jump at the chance to make a real difference to the lives of kids who need it most. We’re very much looking forward to everyone getting involved in the great fundraising events we’ll be holding throughout the year.”