Here at JDP, we have always been committed to supporting local and national charities and initiatives, but with so many great causes out there in need of help, it can be difficult to decide where our support is most needed. That’s why for 2024, we set up a dedicated charity committee to review all charitable proposals brought to us by staff, business partners, and customers and vote on support for the ones we feel most passionate about as a company…which ended up being almost all of them.
One thing we forgot to do, however, was to shout about all the great work being done by the people and organisations we have helped this year. So, to remedy that, here is a highlight round-up of some of the amazing charities and fundraising events that we helped to support through our branch network and valued business partners.
JDP Charitable Donations - Year in Review
Throughout 2024, we contributed to the following important charities, events, and organisations working to make a difference in our local communities and across the UK. Presented here as little “JDP Supports” stories, with details about what was done, how we helped, and info about the charities supported, they may get a little repetitive to read through all in one sitting (there are, after all, only so many ways we can say how proud we are to have helped).
Still, we hope you enjoy reading about all the charitable work that our staff, business partners, and customers have done this year. For 2025, we plan to do these roundups more frequently to make them a little easier to digest and enable us to give more details about each event.
Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to verify the accuracy and reliability of the external web links provided in this article, JDP cannot be held responsible for the content, safety, or reliability of any linked websites. Users are advised to exercise caution and discretion when accessing external websites and to proceed at their own risk.
JDP Supports Strictly Inverness
JDP was proud to contribute to Capstone Construction's fundraising efforts for Strictly Inverness. This popular charity event brings together local businesses and community members to raise vital funds for the Highland Hospice and Inverness Ice Centre.
The thirteenth edition of Strictly Inverness took place in 2024, showcasing the dancing talents of 32 contestants who trained with experienced dance tutors. The event not only entertained audiences but also generated over £2 million since its launch in 2010.
About the Charity/Organisation
- Highland Hospice - This charity provides expert care and support to people with life-limiting illnesses, as well as their families. They offer a range of services, including pain management, counselling, and practical support.
- Inverness Ice Centre - This community facility offers recreational and competitive ice sports for people of all ages. They also provide opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in ice sports and enjoy the benefits of physical activity.
JDP Supports Ollie King’s Marathon Run for Prostate Cancer UK
Ollie King, one of our Key Account Internal Sales Supervisors, demonstrated exceptional dedication to men's health by completing a marathon challenge to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK. Throughout the month of January, Ollie ran a total of 26.2 miles on a treadmill to support crucial research efforts.
Ollie shared his motivation:
"I recently undertook a challenge to run a marathon distance across the month of January to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK to help them with their life-saving research. Unfortunately, it’s a disease that kills too many men because it’s just not caught quickly enough, but the sooner that you recognise the signs, the more treatment options become available and the better chance you stand of having a full recovery. I was very grateful for JDP’s contribution as it really bolstered my donation pot!"
JDP is proud to have supported Ollie's efforts and commends his commitment to making a difference. We encourage everyone to learn more about prostate cancer and take steps to protect their health.
About Prostate Cancer UK
Prostate Cancer UK is a leading men's health charity dedicated to funding life-saving research and raising awareness of prostate cancer. They provide vital support services to men and their families affected by the disease, as well as campaigning for better healthcare policies.
Visit their website, prostatecanceruk.org, to find out more about the work they do and how you can check your own risk.
JDP Supports Lingen Davies Charity
At the request of our Carmarthen branch, JDP made a donation to SJ Roberts, a valued customer who pledged their support to Lingen Davies, a charity dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by cancer across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, and Mid-Wales, throughout 2024.
About Lingen Davies Charity
Lingen Davies was founded in 1979 to bring cancer services closer to the people of Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, and Mid-Wales. Since then, they estimate that more than 100,000 people have had their cancer treatment and care improved as a direct impact of their work and cancer appeals.
Visit their website, lingendavies.co.uk, to find out more about all the great work they do.
JDP Supports Yoga Challenge for Cancer Research UK
A member of our team demonstrated their commitment to health and charity by undertaking a Yoga Challenge throughout February to raise funds for Cancer Research UK. JDP was proud to sponsor this initiative and support their efforts.
Yoga is a fantastic way to improve physical and mental well-being, and by combining it with fundraising, our colleague helped make a positive impact on cancer research.
About Cancer Research UK
Cancer Research UK is the world's leading cancer research charity. They fund groundbreaking research into all aspects of cancer, from prevention to treatment. Their work has helped to save millions of lives and improve the quality of life for cancer patients and their families.
To learn more about Cancer Research UK's work or to donate, please visit their website, cancerresearchuk.org.
JDP Supports Pat Munro Foundation
At the request of our Inverurie branch, JDP was pleased to make a contribution to the Pat Munro Foundation by donating to a raffle prize for one of their fundraising events.
About Pat Munro Foundation
The Pat Munro Foundation is a charitable organisation run by staff members of Pat Munro (Alness) Ltd. Their mission is to raise funds for local organisations and charities, with match funding provided by the company.
They recently hosted their annual Charity Golf Day, which raised an impressive £7,000. With the company's match funding, the total amount raised reached £14,000, significantly boosting the Foundation's ability to support community projects and charities.
Visit their website, patmunro.co.uk, to learn more about the foundation’s efforts to make a positive impact on the local community.
JDP Supports Caroline Skilling’s 100km Brecon Beacons Trek for CoppaFeel
At the request of our Ashford branch, JDP was proud to sponsor Caroline Skilling from Mantair on her incredible 100km trek through the Brecon Beacons in June. Caroline's challenge aimed to raise funds for CoppaFeel, a breast cancer awareness and prevention charity.
Caroline's dedication to raising awareness and funds for such an important cause is truly inspiring. JDP was honoured to support her efforts and contribute to the valuable work of CoppaFeel.
About CoppaFeel
CoppaFeel is a UK-based charity dedicated to raising awareness of breast cancer, particularly among young people. They encourage regular breast self-checks and promote early detection, which can significantly improve outcomes for those diagnosed with breast cancer.
To learn more about CoppaFeel and their important work, please visit their website, coppafeel.org.
JDP Supports Red Knights International Firefighters Motorcycle Club
JDP recently made a donation of guttering and a storage tank to the England 4 chapter of the Red Knights International Firefighters Motorcycle Club, courtesy of a familial connection with Richard Kerridge, our Colchester Branch Manager, who kindly facilitated the arrangement.
About Red Knights Motorcycle Club, England 4
The Red Knights are an international club of firefighters who share a passion for motorcycles. They aim to create a lasting tribute to fallen firefighters, providing a place for remembrance and reflection. Their activities can be followed through their Facebook pages.
JDP Supports The Anderson Foundation
JDP was pleased to make a charitable donation to The Anderson Foundation at the request of our Yate branch.
About The Anderson Foundation
The Anderson Foundation is a dynamic charity committed to making a positive impact on the lives of others. They raise funds through a variety of events and initiatives, including auctions, sporting events, and corporate partnerships. These funds are then distributed to a range of charitable causes, with a particular focus on supporting vulnerable groups and individuals.
Some of the organisations they support include the Collingwood Centre and the Helen Rollason Foundation.
To learn more about The Anderson Foundation and their work, please visit their website, andersonfoundation.co.uk.
JDP Supports Metcalfe Civil Engineering for the Armathwaite Challenge
JDP was proud to sponsor Metcalfe Civil Engineering staff who participated in the Armathwaite Challenge, a 20-mile walk to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation. This annual event has raised over £71,000 for the British Heart Foundation in its 26-year history, with the organisers keen to break the £100,000 barrier.
Event organiser Geoff Fisher said:
"Over the last 26 years, with your constant help, generosity, and support, the Armathwaite walk has generated over £70,000, together, we can smash the £100,000 barrier if we all walk and work together to help a great charity."
About the British Heart Foundation
The British Heart Foundation (BHF) is the leading heart charity in the UK. Their mission is to fund life-saving research into heart and circulatory diseases and to provide vital support to people living with these conditions.
To learn more about the BHF's work or to donate, please visit their website, bhf.org.uk.
JDP Supports RM Contractors' Pink Ribbon Walk
At the request of our Longtown branch, JDP was happy to support RM Contractors as they took part in the 10-mile Pink Ribbon Walk on Saturday, 11th May, to raise funds for Breast Cancer Now. This annual event is a fantastic way to show support for those affected by breast cancer and raise crucial funds for research and patient care.
About Breast Cancer Now
Breast Cancer Now is the UK's leading breast cancer charity. They fund world-class research to find new treatments and cures for breast cancer, as well as providing vital support to people affected by the disease.
To learn more about Breast Cancer Now and their work, please visit their website, breastcancernow.org.
JDP Supports Hecklegirth Nursery
Through the efforts of Dawn Madison, one of our hard-working Category Buyers based in our Longtown Head Office, JDP once again demonstrated its commitment to supporting local communities. This year, we partnered with Toolbank to provide builders' buckets to Hecklegirth Nursery, a local primary school in Longtown.
Over the years, Hecklegirth Nursery has periodically requested supplies to enhance their playground. Whether it's large pipes for crawling through or buckets for sandpits, our Longtown branch has always been happy to assist.
Toolbank generously donated the buckets, free of charge, and Dawn played a crucial role in coordinating this initiative between the nursery and the supplier, which will be used to create exciting new play opportunities for the children.
JDP Supports Glanville Environmental's Plymouth Marathon Run
JDP was proud to support Glanville Environmental as they took part in the Plymouth Half Marathon, 10k, and 5k runs on April 28th. A total of 33 employees participated in the event, raising funds for three incredible charities: Lighthouse Construction Charity, Luna's Fund, and Rowcroft Hospice.
The Plymouth Marathon is a renowned running event that attracts thousands of participants each year. It offers stunning coastal views and a challenging course that tests runners of all abilities.
About the Charities
- Lighthouse Construction Charity - This charity helps construction workers and their families in times of need, providing financial and emotional support. To learn more, visit their website, lighthouseclub.org.
- Luna's Fund - Luna's Fund supports children with neuroblastoma, a rare and aggressive form of childhood cancer. They fund vital research and provide support to families affected by the disease. To learn more, visit their website, lunasfund.com
- Rowcroft Hospice - Rowcroft Hospice provides expert care and support to people with life-limiting illnesses in South Devon. They offer a range of services, including palliative care, counselling, and bereavement support. To learn more, visit their website, rowcrofthospice.org.uk.
JDP Supports Keaveney Group's Rome Rally
At the request of our Ashford branch, JDP was pleased to make a donation to Keaveney Group as they embarked on an epic car rally from Folkestone to Rome. This exciting adventure aimed to raise funds for Martha Trust, a charity that transforms the lives of people with profound disabilities.
By participating in this challenging rally, Keaveney Group demonstrated their commitment to making a difference, and their fundraising efforts will help Martha Trust to continue providing essential support and services to people with disabilities.
About Martha Trust
Martha Trust is a charity dedicated to providing high-quality care and support to people with profound disabilities. They offer a range of services, including residential care, respite care, and day services. Martha Trust empowers individuals to reach their full potential and live fulfilling lives.
To learn more about Martha Trust and their work, please visit their website, marthatrust.org.uk.
JDP Supports Alliance Groundworks and Civils' Snowdonia Challenge
At the request of Neal Johnson, Key Account Manager at our Yate branch, JDP sponsored Alliance Groundworks and Civils with a donation as they sought to complete the Snowdonia 10 Peaks Challenge to raise funds for the Air Ambulance Service.
This challenging feat involved climbing the 10 highest peaks in Snowdonia within 24 hours, a truly impressive accomplishment. Alliance Groundworks and Civils demonstrated incredible dedication and teamwork to complete this challenge and raised vital funds in the process.
About the Air Ambulance Service
The Air Ambulance Service provides vital emergency medical services to people in need. Their rapid response helicopters and highly skilled teams can reach remote and inaccessible areas, often saving lives in critical situations.
To learn more about the Air Ambulance Service and their work, please visit their website, theairambulanceservice.org.uk.
JDP Supports HMH Civils' Charity Skydive
JDP was happy to support HMH Civils, at the request of our Longtown branch, as they took part in a charity skydive to raise funds for Andy's Man Club.
This daring feat involved jumping from a plane at a high altitude…not one for the faint of heart. HMH Civils' bravery and commitment to raising awareness for men's mental health is certainly commendable.
About Andy's Man Club
Andy's Man Club is a UK-based charity dedicated to providing support to men struggling with mental health issues. They offer weekly peer-to-peer support groups across the country, creating a safe and supportive space for men to talk openly about their feelings.
To learn more about Andy's Man Club and their work, please visit their website, andysmanclub.co.uk.
JDP Supports Bridge Learning Campus
JDP proudly supported Bridge Learning Campus, at the request of our Yate branch, by donating a length of Twinwall pipe for outdoor activities.
Bridge Learning Campus is a specialist school that provides education and care for children with a wide range of special educational needs. The donated pipe will be used to create engaging and stimulating outdoor play areas for the students.
Helping education establishments create a more inclusive and supportive environment for their students is very much at the heart of our community support goals and something we are keen to continue doing in the future.
JDP Supports Blanchard Wells' Three Peaks Challenge
JDP was proud to support Blanchard Wells, at the request of Neal Johnson, Key Account Manager at our Yate branch, as they undertook the Three Peaks Challenge. This gruelling feat involved climbing Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in England, and Snowdon in Wales within a 24-hour period.
Blanchard Wells' team demonstrated incredible determination and teamwork to complete this challenge. Their efforts raised vital funds for Crohn’s & Colitis UK.
About Crohn’s & Colitis UK
Crohn’s & Colitis UK is a leading charity that supports people living with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. They provide information, advice, and emotional support to patients and their families, as well as funding research into these debilitating conditions.
To learn more about Crohn’s & Colitis UK and their work, please visit their website, crohnsandcolitis.org.uk.
JDP Supports Hewitson's Dragon Boat Race
At the request of Joe Wallace, Sales Executive at our Head Office in Longtown, JDP happily made a donation to support Hewitson as they took part in Newcastle's Dragon Boat Race 2024. The event, held on September 28th, raised funds for Teenage Cancer Trust.
Dragon boat racing is a thrilling team sport that requires strength, coordination, and teamwork. Hewitson's participation in this event demonstrated their commitment to supporting a worthy cause, and we commend them for it.
About Teenage Cancer Trust
Teenage Cancer Trust is a UK-based charity dedicated to providing specialist care and support for young people with cancer. They offer a range of services, including clinical care, counselling, and social support.
To learn more about Teenage Cancer Trust and their work, please visit their website, teenagecancertrust.org.
JDP Supports Chasetown/Tara Group's Jurassic Coast Challenge
JDP was proud to support Chasetown/Tara Group, at the request of Neal Johnson, Key Account Manager at our Yate branch, as they took on the Jurassic Coast Challenge. This two-day event involved hiking along the stunning Jurassic Coast to raise funds for Spark Burntwood, Birmingham Children's Hospital, and The Lighthouse Club.
Chasetown/Tara Group demonstrated incredible determination and teamwork to complete this challenging event. Their efforts raised a significant amount of money for these worthy charities.
About the Charities
- Spark Burntwood - Spark Burntwood is a local charity that supports individuals and families in the Burntwood area. They provide a range of services, including community projects, youth programs, and support for vulnerable people.
- Birmingham Children's Hospital - Birmingham Children's Hospital is one of the largest children's hospitals in the UK. They provide world-class care to children and young people from across the country.
- The Lighthouse Club - The Lighthouse Club is a construction industry charity that provides support to construction workers and their families in times of need.
JDP Supports Aeropark Ltd in the South Devon Coast Trek26
At the request of Neal Johnson, Key Account Manager at our Yate branch, JDP was pleased to support Brian O'Connor of Aeropark Ltd as he took part in the South Devon Coast Trek26 to raise funds for the Alzheimer's Society.
The South Devon Coast Trek26 is a demanding but rewarding event that showcases the stunning beauty of the Devon coastline, and we’d like to congratulate Brian for rising to the challenge in the name of supporting a worthy charity.
About the Alzheimer's Society
The Alzheimer's Society is the UK's leading dementia charity. They provide support and information to people living with dementia and their families, as well as funding vital research into the condition.
To learn more about the Alzheimer's Society and their work, please visit their website, alzheimers.org.uk.
JDP Supports Broadmayne Fete
JDP was very happy to support the Broadmayne Fete, at the request of our Dorchester branch, by making a donation. The fete, which took place opposite our Dorchester branch, raised funds for several local charities.
The Broadmayne Fete is a popular community event that brings people together to enjoy games, food, and entertainment. The support of local businesses helps to ensure the fete’s success and contributes to the local community, so, naturally, JDP was all too happy to help.
JDP Supports DSD Construction's Skydive for Young Lives v Cancer
JDP made a donation in support of DSD Construction, at the request of our Longtown branch, as they took part in a charity skydive to raise funds for Young Lives v Cancer.
Skydiving is an exhilarating and challenging experience, and DSD Construction's bravery in taking on this challenge is commendable. Their fundraising efforts will help Young Lives v Cancer to continue providing vital support to young people with cancer.
About Young Lives v Cancer
Young Lives v Cancer is a UK-based charity dedicated to supporting young people with cancer. They provide specialist care and support, helping young people to cope with the emotional and practical challenges of cancer.
To learn more about Young Lives v Cancer and their work, please visit their website, younglivesvscancer.org.uk.
JDP Supports McDermotts' 30th Anniversary Summer Fair
At the request of our Ashford branch, JDP was pleased to support McDermotts as they celebrated their 30th anniversary with a Summer Fair and charity raffle.
McDermotts' Summer Fair was a fantastic event that brought the local community together. The funds raised from the fair and raffle will support several local charities.
We hope the gift voucher we donated for the charity raffle helped them to reach their fundraising goals.
JDP Supports Stockport Georgians AFC
JDP was pleased to support Advantage Civil Engineering, at the request of our Radcliffe branch, in their efforts to improve the playing surface at Stockport Georgians AFC. Andy, the owner of Advantage Civil Engineering, runs the amateur football club and was seeking materials to drain the pitch.
Happy to oblige, JDP donated the materials to help ensure that the club can continue to provide a safe and enjoyable playing environment for its members.
JDP Supports Folkestone Saints Basketball Club
JDP was happy to support Folkestone Saints Basketball Club by donating a prize for their fundraising raffle. This volunteer-run club provides basketball opportunities for junior players aged 6-18, with over 200 children participating each week.
By donating a prize, JDP helped to contribute to the club's fundraising efforts and support their mission of providing accessible and enjoyable basketball experiences for young people in the community.
JDP Supports Skydive for East Kent Hospital
JDP was proud to sponsor Tony Haddon (Branch Manager) and Danielle Gillespie (Trainee Branch Supervisor) from our Ashford branch as they took on the challenge of skydiving on Saturday, June 29th. This daring feat was undertaken to raise funds for East Kent Hospital (William Harvey) in Ashford, which provides vital care to poorly children.
By taking on this challenge, Tony and Danielle demonstrated their commitment to supporting their local community, and we commend them both greatly for it. Their bravery and dedication will help to make a real difference to the lives of young patients at East Kent Hospital.
About East Kent Hospitals Charity
East Kent Hospitals Charity is the official charity for East Kent Hospitals University Foundation Trust (EKHUFT). They raise funds to enhance the hospital environment for patients, staff, and visitors. This includes funding projects that fall outside of the NHS budget, such as purchasing specialist equipment, improving treatment facilities, and supporting staff development. For more information about EKHUFT, visit their website, ekhuft.nhs.uk.
JDP Supports Stephenson Group's 26-Mile Charity Walk
At the request of our Yate branch, JDP was happy to make a donation in support of Stephenson Group as they embarked on a 26-mile charity walk at the end of June. This gruelling walk raised funds for several local charities.
By taking on this challenge, these members of Stephenson Group showed an admirable determination toward making a difference in their community, and we applaud them for all their efforts.
JDP Supports Simpson Builders' Duathlon for Highland Cross
JDP was pleased to support Simpson Builders, at the request of our Inverurie branch, as Gordon Cross took part in a duathlon to raise funds for Highland Cross.
This challenging event involved running and cycling, testing the endurance and determination of the participants. We admire Gordon's commitment to raising money for this great charity.
About Highland Cross
Highland Cross is a charity that supports people in the Highlands of Scotland. They provide a range of services, including community development, social care, and healthcare. For more information, visit their website, highlandcross.co.uk
JDP Supports Wildheart Sanctuary's Bear Rescue
JDP, through our Isle of Wight branch, partnered with Marshalls CPM to provide essential supplies for Wildheart Sanctuary's high-profile rescue of two bears from Eastern Europe.
The sanctuary required 4 x 1200x1m concrete rings to create safe sleeping environments for the rescued bears. By working together with Marshalls CPM, JDP was able to donate these crucial supplies free of charge.
About Wildheart Sanctuary
Wildheart Sanctuary is a unique wildlife park and conservation charity located on the Isle of Wight. They are dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of animals, as well as educating the public about wildlife conservation. The sanctuary provides a safe haven for a variety of animals, including big cats, bears, primates, and birds of prey. For more about the sanctuary's work, visit their website, wildheartanimalsanctuary.org.
JDP Supports Emily Stewart's Race for Life
JDP was delighted to sponsor Emily Stewart, Technical Support Assistant at our Head Office in Longtown, as she took part in the Race for Life 10k on July 7th to raise funds for Cancer Research UK.
Emily's commitment to supporting the charity’s vital work and contributing to a brighter future for cancer patients is truly commendable, and we are all very proud of her.
About Cancer Research UK
Cancer Research UK is the world's leading cancer research charity. They fund groundbreaking research into all aspects of cancer, from prevention to treatment. Their work has helped to save millions of lives and improve the quality of life for cancer patients and their families.
To learn more about Cancer Research UK and their work, please visit their website, cancerresearchuk.org.
JDP Supports Tough Mudder 2024
JDP was proud to sponsor the Tough Mudder event in Manchester through our customer Ellison Construction with a donation of Twinwall pipes that were used to help create the course.
About Tough Mudder
Tough Mudder is a series of challenging 10-12 mile obstacle courses designed to test both physical and mental endurance. Participants face a variety of obstacles, including mud pits, electric shocks, and ice baths. The event is not only a physical challenge but also a mental one, as participants must overcome fear and push themselves to their limits.
Tough Mudder events raise money for various charities, including those focused on mental health, veterans' support, and cancer research. To learn more about these events, visit their website, toughmudder.co.uk.
