In a heartwarming collaboration, DIY SOS and Radio 2 are teaming up once again to deliver this year’s BBC Children in Need Big Build. Celebrating its 10th project for the charitable cause, DIY SOS will construct a bespoke children’s counselling and therapy centre for Treetops Hospice in Risley, Derbyshire.
The forthcoming special build aims to benefit traumatically bereaved children and families across Derbyshire, providing a purpose-built, tailored space for counselling and support. Thanks to Radio 2’s support, the project is set to create a lasting legacy in the East Midlands, alongside the station’s flagship live music event, Radio 2 in the Park, featuring performances by renowned artists like Tears for Fears and Kylie Minogue, to be held at Victoria Park in Leicester on 16th and 17th September.
Leading the charge will be DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles, along with his trusted team of Chris, Billy, and designer Gabrielle Blackman. BBC Radio 2 presenters will also join the construction effort, donning steel toe-capped boots, high visibility vests, and hard hats to lend their support. The collaborative effort will bring together a dedicated army of volunteers who will work tirelessly to create the charity’s new building, from the ground up, in just 10 days.
The primary focus of the DIY SOS team will be to develop a purpose-built counselling and therapy centre that will welcome children and families with warmth and compassion. The bespoke rooms will cater to counselling and complementary therapy, while a multi-functional area will provide crucial support to those struggling with traumatic bereavement.
Treetops Hospice has been supporting adults with life-limiting conditions for over four decades, and BBC Children in Need has been a steadfast supporter since 2010. The funding has been instrumental in providing counselling to hundreds of bereaved children and families, earning Treetops Hospice a reputation as a centre of excellence for children’s counselling.
Nick Knowles, the presenter of BBC One’s DIY SOS, expressed his excitement about the forthcoming build, stating, “We have another huge build ahead of us in Derbyshire, which will provide a crucial space for children and their families who are going through some of the toughest times. If you have a trade, a skill can spare some time to graft or can help us with materials, then get in touch. It’ll be a blast.”
Tommy Nagra, Director of Content at BBC Children in Need, also expressed his anticipation for the impactful build, emphasising the significance of Radio 2’s involvement in creating a lasting legacy in the East Midlands.
The build will commence on Monday 11 September – Thursday 21 September 2023.
The episode will be broadcast during the BBC Children in Need Appeal week in November.
