BOLTON-based builder and developer Seddon is hoping to raise the issues of inadequate housing, forced evictions and slum dwelling on an international scale through its charity work.

The company has named Homeless International as its nominated charity of the year for 2014.

The UK charity helps people living in slums across the world through the construction of new homes and the development of social housing in more than 16 countries.

Seddon, which has offices in Plodder Lane, Farnworth, is aiming to raise more than £10,000 over the course of the year through fundraising events.

Managing director Jonathan Seddon said: “Inadequate housing is an incredibly important issue and one we hope to highlight over the course of this year through our partnership with Homeless International.

“At Seddon we are passionate about creating homes for people to live, work and thrive in, and are delighted to be able to take our enthusiasm for good-quality housing to the international stage.”

As well as supporting the charity through fundraising events, the company has also donated a section of its stand at industry trade event, Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH) Conference, to highlight the charity’s work to other organisations.

Chief development officer at Homeless International, Alan Machin, said: “We are delighted to have the backing of an outstanding builder and developer such as Seddon.

“This is a perfect partnership and we look forward to drawing on their skills and expertise to support our projects and develop new homes around the world.”

Seddon is planning to hold fund raising events throughout the year, with employees also lending a hand to the charity’s project to build 279 new homes in Pokhara, Nepal. In November, three employees will offer their expertise to the scheme as well as raising funds through sponsorship of a 34k trek.

Seddon has a longstanding history of supporting communities and charitable work. Previous charity campaigns have included a two-year partnership with Christie Hospital in Manchester, Europe’s largest cancer treatment centre, which raised £330,000.

Seddon added: “The work of Homeless International makes a huge difference for some of the world’s poorest people, enabling communities to gain access to good-quality affordable housing and the basic services which most of us take for granted.

“We are delighted that Homeless International will be our charity partner for 2014 and look forward to supporting the organisation’s vital work.”