Caxton Builders Support DIY SOS – the bbc’s flagship home renovation programme
Caxton Builders could not be prouder to support BBC1’s DIY SOS – a big build in Leicestershire to build a safe and accessible home for Isla and her family.
DIY SOS – the BBC’s flagship home renovation programme presented by Nick Knowles brings together local tradespeople and suppliers to take on big builds in limited time. When the call came to support a remarkable family in our region, our team at Caxton Builders didn’t hesitate.
The episode aired on Friday 3rd October on BBC1, and we are proud to look back at our role in helping to make it happen.
Isla’s Story
Isla, aged seven, lives in Leicester with her mum, Stacey, and sister, Paige, twelve. She has a rare condition called Mandibuloacral Dysplasia with a unique mutation making her the only person in the UK living with it. Born a fighter, Isla underwent a tracheostomy just hours after birth and has grown into a vibrant child who faces each day with incredible resilience.
Her condition brings daily challenges, including brittle bones, fragile skin, difficulty breathing, and the need for nighttime PEG feeding. For Isla, even a simple fall can cause serious harm, so creating a home that is safer, more accessible, and truly supportive was essential.
Community matters
As a business founded in the Midlands, we believe community matters most when it’s needed most. DIY SOS invited the local trade community to help create a home that meets Isla’s needs and supports Stacey’s incredible dedication as a single parent.
Caxton Builders go beyond just building
Caxton Builders Construction Director, Andy Townshend explains: “’It was important that we went beyond just building – we wanted to make sure every detail truly met Isla’s needs. Knowing that our work has helped create a home where she can feel safe, supported, and free to enjoy her childhood is something we will always be proud of. A heartfelt thank you to the DIY SOS team, the many local volunteers and suppliers, and to Stacey, Isla, and Paige for welcoming us into their lives and trusting us to help”.
Our On-Site Team
Our team included site supervisors, bricklayers, and one of our third year apprentices. We completed structural works including steelwork, removal of chimney, new doorways, block up doorways, carry, load out, brickwork to the front wall and steps, and we helped the plasterers and all other trades where they needed support. Thank you to Andy Townshend, Chloe Yafi, Nigel Lynch, Ian Knight, Gareth Williamson and Jack Stride for your hard work.
This project showed what can happen when skilled people come together with a shared purpose. We were proud to join fellow trades and suppliers in contributing time, expertise, and materials – so Isla can now enjoy a home designed to be a safe. happy environment.
You can watch the episode here.
