BASINGSTOKE’s newest care home has handed over a £200 cheque to a former Mayor’s community fund supporting charitable organisations and individuals across the borough.

This morning (Monday, September 6), representatives from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation (HIWCF) visited Dashwood Manor care home in Beggarwood, where they were presented with a £200 cheque for its Basingstoke and Deane Community Fund.

HIWCF is one of 46 community foundations across the UK, working to get funding to people and groups who most need it.

In the last year alone, it has given out £2.3 million in grants from its various funds.

One such fund is the Basingstoke and Deane Community Fund, set up and run by former Mayor and HIWCF trustee, Cllr Dan Putty.

Since its inception during his term as Mayor seven years ago, the fund has supported multiple groups across the area, giving out approximately £2,000 each year.

Thanking the care home for the donation, Cllr Putty told the Gazette: “I was instrumental in the council in bringing this magnificent nursing home to light.

“My visit with Leahanne [Wilkinson, customer relations manager] was very productive and they offered to donate to my fund, which is about giving small amounts to organisations, individuals and groups doing good work.”

The care home, operated under Care UK and opening to residents next week, will make regular donations to local groups as part of its mission to work together with its community.

Dil Perera, home manager, added: “We’re very pleased to support the Basingstoke and Deane Community Fund.

“Many groups rely on grants or donations, so the Basingstoke and Deane Community Fund is key to ensure valuable community initiatives are able to receive the funding they need to continue providing essential services to local people.

“As a brand new care home, we know just how important community spirit is, so we are keen to build long-lasting bonds with our neighbours. We’re sure this donation will be the start of a great relationship between Dashwood Manor and Basingstoke and Deane Community Fund, and we look forward to welcoming them again into our home once open, and once restrictions allow.”

Also receiving donations today were neighbour Care Basingstoke and the Viables Memory Club.