This year, to mark the 200th anniversary of the iconic Cadbury brand, a special roadshow for colleagues toured locations across the UK, including Crediton, inviting them to vote for charities to receive a share of £200k from The Cadbury Foundation.  

After receiving the most votes from local colleagues, FearFree received a £8,000 grant, with Westbank awarded a £5,000 donation from The Cadbury Foundation.

FearFree has been dedicated to ending domestic violence in the region and beyond. By providing practical and emotional support, the charity ensures that victims can escape unsafe situations, stay protected, and move forward with their lives, leading to safer, happier futures.

With the £8,000 donation, FearFree will expand its support for individuals facing domestic abuse, offering tailored one-to-one advice for both children and adults, as well as group sessions and workshops, to raise awareness.

Established in 1986, Westbank supports people across Devon to improve their quality of life through a comprehensive range of health and wellbeing initiatives including cookery lessons, social activities, health workshops and exercise.

Last year alone, the charity supported over 37,000 people across the region and employed over 150 staff, supported by an army of volunteers. The £5,000 grant will help Westbank fund a pilot project to create Dementia Cafés, offering vital support to those living with dementia and their families.

Katie Elliott, head of fundraising and marketing at Westbank, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have received an extremely generous donation of £5,000 from The Cadbury Foundation. Thanks to the grant, we can support more people in our community by setting up Dementia Cafés, which will provide a safe space for people and their families navigating a very complex and challenging disease.”

Jessica Gay, head of fundraising at FearFree, commented: “We are thrilled to have the support of The Cadbury Foundation. This donation will help us continue supporting adults and children experiencing domestic abuse in Exeter, East, and Mid Devon. The grant received is vital at this challenging time, keeping families safe and helping them rebuild their lives, happy, fulfilled, and free from fear.”

The Cadbury Foundation, which is celebrating its 90^th anniversary next year, was set up in 1935 in recognition of Richard and George Cadbury and their investment in the welfare of their employees and the local community, and to continue their work.

Kelly Farrell, community affairs manager at Mondelēz International, added: “As we celebrate the incredible 200th anniversary of Cadbury’s, we’re also celebrating two centuries of giving back - investing in our communities and making a real difference.  

“Carrying on the spirit of the Cadbury brothers is something we’re incredibly proud of, as we continue to support amazing charities and projects like Westbank and FearFree that positively impact countless lives each year.” 

For more information on The Cadbury Foundation, please visit www.cadbury.co.uk/about/impact/cadbury-foundation/.