The York-based firm’s Building Futures scheme aims to support community groups working with under-18s across three categories in education and arts, health and sport.

The scheme is delivered through the Persimmon Charitable Foundation in partnership with Team GB, the British Olympic Association, with the company having enlisted the help of Olympic gold medal winning cyclist Dani Rowe to launch the scheme.

John Eynon, regional chairman northern division, said: “Young people are at the heart of all our futures, and we are fortunate to be able to provide support and help create positive outcomes through our Building Futures campaign.

“We will make donations from £1,000 to £100,000 to grassroots sports groups, charities dealing with physical and mental health issues, as well as community arts and education projects.”

A total of 128 grants of £1,000 will be awarded across Persimmon’s 32 regional businesses to improve local facilities and the delivery of vital community projects.

Ms Rowe said: “These sums of money can be life-changing and could make a real difference to the recipients.”