Drax Community Fund gives Selby Preschool financial boost to help secure its future

Renewable energy company Drax has provided vital financial support to help a much-loved local pre-school continue to provide childcare.

The donation, made through Drax’s Community Fund, will help to secure the future of an early years setting that provides essential support to families in one of Selby’s most deprived areas.

In addition to the donation, Drax has offered pro-bono advice and guidance to help the preschool strengthen its long-term sustainability. This includes support with identifying future funding opportunities, developing community partnerships and building wider networks of support across the local area.

Selby Preschool plays a crucial role in providing a safe and nurturing environment for young children while supporting parents and carers through affordable childcare and family-focused services. However, financial pressures had left the preschool in urgent need of additional support to remain open and continue serving the local community.

Kim Webb-Fryer, Manager, Selby Community Preschool, said: 

“Selby Community Preschool has been at the heart of Selby for over 30 years, supporting generations of families. Like many small charities, we’ve faced some real challenges in recent years. Still, with resilience, dedication, and the incredible support of our new friends at Drax, we’re feeling hopeful for the future. Their generosity enables us to continue providing a safe, nurturing, and affordable preschool for local children and families who need us the most. We’re proud of our long history in Selby and, with this support, we look forward to being here for the next 30 years and beyond.”

Nick Robinson, Drax’s UK Community & Education Manager, said:

“Selby Preschool is an important part of the local community, offering children a positive start in life and supporting families who rely on its care and services. Through the Drax Community Fund, we’re proud to play a part in helping to safeguard its future and provide guidance to help it build long-term resilience. Our place-based approach to community investment means we’re committed to supporting the people, projects and organisations that make a real difference in and around Selby.”

The donation reflects Drax’s ongoing commitment to place-based investment in the Selby area, supporting projects that deliver meaningful social and educational impact for local communities.