Corporate Social Responsibility – is now the time?
It goes without saying that 2020 has been a challenging year for us all (to say the least!).
But for those businesses that have been able to adapt their strategy, operational model, or pivot their business successfully, and those who have been fortunate to be in sectors that have largely continued with ‘business as usual’, now might be the perfect time to kick off some Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Often seen as a ‘nice thing to do’ but only ‘when we can find the time’, I would encourage you to challenge that mindset.
CSR activities, at any time, really can be a win:win:win!
Let me explain, using our business as an example. We select a Charity Partner of the Year, and in 2020 it is Thrombosis UK. This is a cause very close to our hearts here at The Cashroom – a member of our team, Emma Collins, very sadly passed away in 2019 from the condition. Emma was a Cashier in our Skelmersdale office, and an extremely popular team member. In honour of Emma, choosing Thrombosis UK as our charity partner for 2020 was a unanimous decision amongst the Culture group.
During October, we are aiming to walk, cycle, run, golf(!) or use any mode of active travel the 201 miles between our two offices. Our staff are undertaking the challenge either in their teams, or individually, to try and raise lots of money for this cause. We will also be doing a raffle draw, and a ‘Fancy Dress Friday’ on 30 October. So, first and foremost, undertaking the fundraising challenge will benefit Thrombosis UK, and assist them in funding the fabulous work that they do. A Win for them.
Secondly, our people have really enjoyed getting involved in the charity initiatives, and that’s even before Fancy Dress Friday! It has brought people together, positively impacting staff engagement, raised awareness of the important health messages from the charity. Also encouraged our staff to stay (or get more) active as the weather turns a bit worse, which has many positive outcomes on physical and mental wellbeing. A Win for our people.
Finally, it is worth mentioning for those who think CSR is all about giving time and money away, it has also been a Win for us as a business. The various activities have raised our profile, and led to increased engagement with clients, suppliers, strategic partners and other stakeholders. People generally like to support good causes, and those trying to help raise funds for those good causes.
So, I would encourage you not to write off CSR just now, but to embrace the opportunities it brings.
Charities have been hit particularly hard this year, and for those able to do so, I would encourage you to support them, even in a very small way if you can. On that note, if anyone would like to donate to our challenge, the link to our JustGiving page can be found here. Even donating the equivalent cost of a take away coffee would be very much appreciated, as every little bit really does help. And I’d be more than happy to return the favour in the future!
Gregor Angus, Senior Business Development Manager
