Donaldson Timber Systems (DTS) has donated timber offcuts to local Witney charity, Guideposts Trust, in a first step in the organisation’s fruitful new charity partnership.

Guideposts Outdoor Wellbeing Hub received its first delivery of wood from the UK’s leading offsite timber frame manufacturer last month, which will be used in gardening and woodwork classes at Guideposts Dig ‘n’ Grow service for adults with learning difficulties and Guideposts Dreamcatchers Forest School for young people with additional needs.

As the partnership continues, the donated wood from Witney based DTS will be used to make raised beds for Dig ‘n’ Grow attendees to grow plants, flowers and vegetables; as well as in woodworking classes which help to develop skills such as dexterity while providing the opportunity for participants to connect with nature.

DTS’ construction process results in roughly 1.6 thousand tonnes of timber offcuts, a natural result of offsite manufacturing methods and, as a company, Donaldson Timber Systems has always had an environmental conscience, ensuring that 100% of its excess material is recycled. In this way, it contributes to the current government aim for the UK to become carbon neutral by 2050.

Shelley Benwell, Marketing Manager, Donaldson Timber Systems, said: “Not only are we are committed to reducing and recycling the offcuts produced from our timber systems as we work towards reducing environmental impacts, we also believe in supporting the local community and those who live and work within it.

“Guideposts do amazing work in Witney with their Dig ‘n’ Grow service, providing locals with the chance to connect with nature, get outside and learn valuable, transferable skills which will benefit themselves, the local area and community. We are proud to support their work, and we look forward to seeing how else our timber is used.”

Tania Kirby, Senior Fundraiser for Guideposts said: “It’s always great to get backing from local businesses who share our values, and SMTS have been very generous in providing materials for our classes and workshops which aim to engage adults and young people in the area in planting, woodwork, nature crafts and cooking, all in a safe and social setting.”