DC08-316 September 15, 2008
BT staff complete Newry Cares Challenge
Belfast Tuesday 15th September: Hardworking staff from BT have completed a Business in the Community Cares Challenge in Newry.
Big hearted business volunteers from the company armed themselves with brushes and paints, setting to work improving the Newry Women’s Refuge.
Porches, bedrooms, kitchens and corridors all got a lick of paint to brighten up the surroundings for users of the centre.
Joan Larkin, Team Leader for the BT staff, said; “BT is committed to corporate responsibility and this project provided an excellent opportunity to develop and motivate employees while leaving a positive community impact.
“It was a real pleasure to lend a helping hand at the Newry Women’s Refuge and everyone made us feel really welcome.
“Seeing the fruits of our labour at the end of the challenge was really inspiring and all the team hope we made a really positive difference for those who use the vital facilities.”
Eileen Murphy, Area Manager of the Newry Women’s Refuge, commented; “All the staff and users of our refuge would like to thank the employees from BT for their hard work and Business in the Community for arranging the challenge.
“We had a great day and the enthusiasm of the volunteers really brought a great atmosphere to the centre.
“We support vulnerable women and their families, who often arrive to our refuge traumatised and in crisis, therefore it is extremely important, that the first impression of refuge is as warm and welcoming as possible.
“Activities like this help us deliver our services and really make a difference to people’s lives.”
Business in the Community helps companies act responsibly through employee volunteering, including team and individual opportunities, enabling people expand their skills in a totally new environment.
Business in the Community Northern Ireland Director, Martin Howell commented, "In the past, employers might have organised teambuilding days which may, for example, have simply been leisure activities.
“More and more employers now look for challenges with added value that help develop people while leaving lasting impacts on the community.
“Hats off to everyone involved at BT. The company has shown real leadership and commitment to developing staff while making a positive community impact.”
For more information the Cares programme please contact Hilary Dickson on Tel: (028) 9046 0606 or e-mail hilary.dickson@bitcni.org.uk.
For more information on Business in the Community, visit www.bitcni.org.uk.
Notes to Editors
• Cares is a Business in the Community initiative.
• A not-for-profit membership organisation, Business in the Community has a core membership of 750 companies, including 75% of the FTSE 100. More than 220 of these companies are members in Northern Ireland.
• It works to inspire, engage, support and challenge business to continually improve the impact it has on society.
• Its range of programmes focus on the environment, the workplace, social impact, and economic impact.
• The President is HRH The Prince of Wales and the Chair of the Northern Ireland Board is Michael Ryan, Vice-President & General Manager, Bombardier Aerospace.
