A GENEROUS housebuilder has donated funds to Berkshire Women's Aid to help ensure the building is secure for victims across Reading, Wokingham and Bracknell seeking refuge.

The CALA community bursary was launched in February 2018 and invited local charities and organisations to apply for help to fund projects which make a vital difference to those at the heart of the community.

Berkshire Women's Aid was selected as one of the ten charities across Berkshire and received £1,000 donation from the local housebuilder.

The cash boost is useful to install a video entry system at their new facility in Reading to make it a safe space for victims.

Liz Terry, Chief Executive at Berkshire Women's Aid said: "We launched our Big Build programme in 2015 to construct a new refuge and refurbish an existing refuge on the same site to ensure more victims get the help they need in a place of safety.

"The new refuge, which was completed in November 2018, will provide a range of facility to support adults and children from across the region; offering a place of safety and dignity at their lowest point."

Nick Twine, managing director for CALA Homes said: "We are delighted to have been able to support Berkshire Women's Aid as part of the 2018 Community Bursary scheme.

"Berkshire Women's Aid perfectly mirrors the ethos and we are thrilled to provide the vital funding they need to ensure their new refuge provides a safe haven for victims and staff alike."

CALA Homes provides housing developments across Berkshire, including the Millennium Fields where there are a selection of one and two bedroom apartments and three and four bedroom houses.