Jeremy Palmer, a 48-year-old from Bath, is preparing to skydive in August to raise funds for Burlington House, the rehab centre that played a pivotal role in his recovery from addiction. Jeremy’s story is one of hope and transformation: after detoxing there in 2012, he not only achieved sobriety but later ran the very centre where he began his journey and now manages three local support houses helping others battling addiction.
Despite the vital services provided by Burlington House and its managing charity, Developing Health and Independence (DHI), the organisation is currently grappling with severe financial challenges. The ongoing cost of living crisis has intensified demand for their services while simultaneously driving down donations.
DHI’s Chief Executive and Founder, Rosie Phillips, highlights the paradox charities face: “When economic pressures rise, so does the need for support, but funding becomes scarcer.” Local authority funding has tightened, recruitment is more difficult, and the combined pressures have created what she calls a “perfect storm.”
Communications Manager Marianne Rawlins emphasizes the critical role donations play in sustaining their work across housing, homelessness, drug and alcohol treatment, and the criminal justice system. “Our clients are among the most vulnerable in society, often facing stigma in addition to their challenges,” Rawlins explains. She encourages the community to contribute, noting that even small donations can create a significant impact. “If everyone who was inspired by Jeremy’s story donated just £1, we could raise over £40,000 — a tremendous help for a local charity like ours.”
Currently, Jeremy has raised £300 from 12 generous donors as he prepares to jump from 15,000 feet on August 1. His daring fundraiser is not just a personal milestone but a call to action, inviting the community to support those battling addiction during these difficult times.