GRASSROOT charities in Dorset that combat social isolation for those aged over 65 will receive a financial boost after £52,251 was raised from a recent Jurassic Coast fundraiser walk.

89 employees from Bournemouth-based business McCarthy Stone took on the Jurassic Coast walk last month to raise money for the McCarthy Stone Foundation, which supports grassroots charitable causes in more deprived areas to bring value, connection and engagement to people over 65.

The team set a record for the most raised by a McCarthy Stone Foundation challenge to date.

The team smashed their original target of £12,000 and raised nearly twice that with £23,905 donated via the JustGiving page. On top of this, the retirement housebuilder had pledged to match all donations made, and with Gift Aid added too, the McCarthy Stone Foundation will receive a massive £52,251 in total.

Just some of McCarthy Stone’s team about to set off to walk along the Jurassic coastline to raise money for charity Picture: McCarthy Stone

From befriending charities, dementia groups, small community luncheons to men’s sheds, and care homes, the McCarthy Stone 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.

This includes funding for Somerford ARC Community Centre’s ADaPT Café near Christchurch, which supports those living locally with Dementia, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and their carers. The foundation also hosts monthly social events for people in later life at the Hub on the Heath in Poole.

A McCarthy Stone spokesperson said: “The walk was no mean feat.  Half of those taking part, which included both McCarthy Stone employees and suppliers, walked 48km along the coastline from Weymouth to Swanage, taking in iconic views and local heritage sites like Durdle Door, Kimmeridge Bay and Swyre Head.

One of McCarthy Stone’s team walking along part of the Jurassic coastline Picture: McCarthy Stone

“Meanwhile, the other half joined them at Lulworth Cove for the remaining 29km. Those setting off from Weymouth ascended over 1,517m as part of the challenge – surpassing the height of Ben Nevis.”

Along the course of the route, 15 checkpoints were staffed by friends, family and colleagues of the walkers who volunteered their time to cheer on the group and support, with water and treats. Local outdoor instructors Land & Wave were also on-hand to ensure everything is running smoothly.

At the end of the day, a celebration was held at The Centre in Swanage, where food and drink was served. All proceeds from the celebration were donated to the Swanage and Purbeck Development Trust to support charities within the local community.

Foundation Coordinator, Julia Laister said: “What an achievement! We have been absolutely bowled over by the generosity and community spirit shown by our colleagues at McCarthy Stone, who truly live the values of community and achieving together and thank them for all their time and support.

“Walking the coastline is tough at the best of times, but to do this on a hot summer’s day while raising record amounts of money for charity, generously backed by the McCarthy Stone Group, was even more impressive.

“We sincerely thank everyone who took part for their exceptional level of commitment in helping us raise vital funds that will help strengthen communities and provide support to thousands more older people.

“We also want to extend our thanks to Land & Wave who did such a wonderful job of keeping us all safe on the day.”

Shane Paull, McCarthy Stone’s chief operating officer, joined colleagues walking the route on the day.

He said: “The level of tenacity and commitment shown by our team to raise vital funds towards improving the wellbeing and happiness of older people in society has been incredible, and it was amazing to be part of this challenge with them.

“After months of training, their hard work has certainly paid off – despite the early start and hot weather. Congratulations to all involved and thank you to everyone who donated towards this important cause.”

McCarthy Stone has a number of retirement living developments throughout Dorset, including Stour Gate in Blandford Saint Mary, Casterbridge 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, please call 0800 153 3076 or visit www.mccarthystone.co.uk/Dorset