Defected and homelessness charity Shelter announce year-long partnership, From House To Home

Defected Records has announced a new fundraising partnership with UK housing and homelessness charity, Shelter.

Beginning in July 2023, the year-long campaign will feature a variety of fundraising activities intended to unite the dance music community in supporting Shelter’s work across housing and homelessness.

Planned activity includes a collaborative line of merchandise with proceeds going to Shelter, takeovers on Defected Radio to discuss the housing crisis, live events showcasing Defected’s female and LGBTQ+ artists (two groups disproportionately affected by homelessness), and volunteering and fundraising by the Defected team.

Speaking on the partnership, Wez Saunders, CEO at Defected Records, said: “Hearing the worrying statistics around homelessness in the UK, especially how it affects certain groups, has been a big personal motivator for partnering with Shelter. Defected has a far-reaching and exceptionally engaged community which means we have a unique position for raising awareness and addressing causes that most likely have affected some of those people. Combine that with the power of dance music and its ability to unite people, and I hope that we can support Shelter with their work in a significant way.”

Polly Neate, Chief Executive of Shelter, added: “We’re delighted that Defected are joining us in our fight for home, harnessing the power of its community to help raise vital funds and much needed awareness. Their support will help us continue to be there for anyone facing bad housing and homelessness, and call for real change.”

In November 2023, Saunders will also be hosting an exclusive auction night and gala at BAFTA in London’s West End. Performances from special guests on the night will be announced soon.

Find out more about the Defected x Shelter partnership here.

Revisit DJ Mag’s feature on the history of Defected.