95 WALKERS will make their way along Dorset’s stunning Jurassic Coast path later this month to raise money to help combat loneliness and social isolation in later life.

Employees from Bournemouth-based business McCarthy Stone, the UK’s leading developer and manager of retirement communities, are hoping to raise over £12,000 for its independent charity, the McCarthy Stone Foundation, which supports grassroots charitable causes in more deprived areas to bring value, connection and engagement to people over 65.

The charity has raised more than £11,000 so far Picture: McCarthy Stone

The Foundation has supported over 400 grassroots charitable causes since launching in December 2020, and will award around £400,000 in 2024, reaching thousands of older people experiencing loneliness and isolation.

Half of those taking part, which includes both McCarthy Stone employees and suppliers, will walk 48km along the coastline from Weymouth to Swanage, taking in iconic views and local heritage sites like Durdledoor, Kimmeridge Bay and Swyre Head.

Meanwhile, the other half will join them at Lulworth Cove for the remaining 29km.

Those setting off from Weymouth will ascend more than 1,517m as part of the challenge – surpassing the height of Ben Nevis.

Along the course of the route, there will be 15 checkpoints staffed by friends, family and colleagues of the walkers who have volunteered their time to cheer on the group and support, with water and treats.

Local outdoor instructors, Land & Wave will also be on-hand to ensure everything is running smoothly.

So far more than £10,000 has been raised via the JustGiving page.

To drum up support, the retirement housebuilder has pledged to match all donations, which means if it reaches its fundraising target of £12,000, the McCarthy Stone Foundation will receive a £24,000 boost.

To congratulate participants crossing the finish line, a celebration will be held at The Centre, 7 Chapel Lane in Swanage, where food and drink will be served.

Those taking part will walk 48km Picture: McCarthy Stone

All proceeds will be donated to the Swanage and Purbeck Development Trust to support charities within the local community.

To date, local charities that have benefited from the crucial funding include Somerford ARC Community Centre’s ADaPT Café, which supports those living locally with Dementia, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and their carers, and also Winton Hope Community Church’s weekly social group which aims to reduce isolation and loneliness for the over 65s.

Foundation Coordinator, Julia Laister, who has led on organising the event, said: “We are hugely grateful to our colleagues at McCarthy Stone, who live the values of community and achieving together, for all their generous support.

“Everyone taking part has shown an exceptional level of commitment and deserves a huge round of applause.

“Through these initiatives, generously backed by the McCarthy Stone Group, we can continue to strengthen communities and provide support to thousands more older people.”

Shane Paull, McCarthy Stone’s Chief Operating Officer, is joining colleagues walking the route.

He said: “I’m delighted to be taking part in the sponsored walk – it’s a real testament to everyone’s commitment and tenacity at McCarthy Stone.

“Although it’s undoubtedly going to be a challenge, the payoff will be worth tenfold, and the opportunity to experience such a scenic route unrivalled.

“It’s especially great to be taking on the walk as such a big group, as this will really help to keep us motivated.

“I know there’s a few of us – me included – who aren’t looking forward to the early 5.30am start.

“However, I think this is a real opportunity for McCarthy Stone to strengthen its ties with the community and reinforce its purpose to champion the role, wellbeing and happiness of older people in society.”

McCarthy Stone has a number of retirement living developments throughout Dorset, including Stour Gate in Blandford Saint Mary, Casterbridge Court and Bowes Lyon Court in Dorchester, Gordon Court in Bridport, and Clarendon House and Greenhaven in Poole.

The Old Market Village in Wimborne is also set to open this Autumn.

To find out more about McCarthy Stone’s retirement living options across Dorset, call 0800 153 3076 or visit www.mccarthystone.co.uk/Dorset