What is Corporate Social Responsibility?
Corporate Social Responsibility is a well established practice in the private and third sector which recognises and promotes social, economic and environmental responsibility. The Companies Act 2006 places a greater emphasis on businesses to say what they are 'putting back' into the communities in which they operate.
MP Chris White's Public Services (Social Enterprise & Social Value) Bill 2010-11 is currently going through the House of Commons. The Bill would require the Secretary of State and local authorities to publish strategies in connection with promoting social enterprise; to enable communities to participate in the formulation and implementation of those strategies; to require that public sector contracts include provisions relating to social outcomes and social value; and for connected purposes. This Bill would link in with the Big Society agenda by allowing people to be more actively involved in the wider society.
Many companies have adpoted Employer Supported Volunteering schemes, covering all forms of volunteering carried out by employees which is supported by their employer. Employee's skills and time are an important resource which enable an employer to contribute to community needs, alongside other resources of support such as donated goods and services and allowing community groups to use meeting rooms, etc.
Payroll giving is another way of helping to put something back into the community. It is a scheme which allows employees to give to any UK charity straight from their gross salary and receive tax relief of up to £4 per £10 donated. For more information, please contact Kim Bate on 01925 444173 or email kbate@warrington.gov.uk.
How can it benefit the sectors?
The current economic climate is proving to be a tough time for everyone. How a business behaves locally in its relationships will determine its reputation. The Cabinet Office Innovation in tough times report suggests that innovative partnerships between the sectors are needed to 'survive and thrive'.
The needs of some communities present issues that cannot be solved in isolation or by the government alone. Employee's skills and resources can offer support for communities in extremely positive ways. Employers can work in partnership with third sector and public sector organisations to tackle specific public policy and community issues such as education, health, regeneration, environment and employment.
For businesses, the benfits include
- Improved public image and raised profile within the local community
- Increase in employee morale and enhanced work performance, resulting in a happier team
- Improved staff recruitment and company loyalty
For employees, the benefits include
- Personal development - increases and develops individual's skills
- Personal satisfaction - a real hands-on way to give back to others
- Builds and strengthens relationships with work colleagues
For communities, the benefits include
- Longer-term partnerships and stronger relationships
- Wider supporter base
- Specialist skills and attributes to meet specific needs
How can I get involved?
I am a private business
Could your organisation or staff offer support to local events, community projects, charities and groups by sparing a few hours to help out?
Perhaps your expertise or even resoures could be made available one afternoon?
Why not advertise any surplus equipment on Freecycle so voluntary and community groups can benefit from your donations?
If you live or work in Warrington and want to find out more about volunteering opportunities contact Rebecca Harris on 01925 444070 or email rharris@warrington.gov.uk. Alternatively, contact the Volunteer Centre on 01925 637609.
I am a third sector organisation
Do you need access to high quality volunteers with varied skills or a mentor who could provide invaluable expertise and advice?
Do you want better services for vulnerable and deprived bodies?
Would additional 'bodies' help you to carry out renovations?
If you are a voluntary or community group operating in Warrington, let us know what support you need by contacting Rebecca Harris on 01925 444070 or email rharris@warrington.gov.uk.
Alternatively, contact the Volunteer Centre on 01925 637609.