I grew up in a family that believed in putting others before
oneself and it's a mindset that I've carried throughout my life. As
CEO & Collector of The Merchants House of Glasgow, I can
combine my desire to make a positive difference in people's lives
with my professional background in finance and membership
organisations.
In the UK, the concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR)
began in 1971 when the Committee for Economic Development
introduced the idea that companies function and exist because of
public consent and therefore, companies should contribute to the
needs of society. 50 years on, CSR is still high on the agenda,
proving that it's more than a buzzword. It is a necessity which is
rewarding for employees, employers, and charities alike.
For many companies, the new financial year begins in April with
senior management teams focusing on profit and growth, attracting
and retaining talent and creating a culture that is
forward-thinking and inclusive. Yet, in the current economic
climate, how can CSR remain a priority when budgets are tight and
employees have demanding schedules? And does charitable CSR have to
involve a huge commitment of time, effort and money? Do you need to
run marathons or give up your evenings to be involved? The simple
answer is no.
Below are two examples of CSR that take very little time, but
when adopted as a regular habit, can raise significant funds for
charity.
- When hiring an external venue for meetings, networking events
or dinners, choose a local not-for-profit venue that donates income
from venue hire to good causes.
- Order your next team lunch from a social enterprise like Launch
Foods on Bothwell Street, which provides hungry kids with
nutritious after-school meals in some of the city's most deprived
areas.
Personally, I was drawn to my role at The Merchants House
because it donates to multiple charities across Glasgow and the
West, many of which I was unaware of before starting this role. It
genuinely feels good to know that the work we are doing makes a
positive impact on the lives of the most vulnerable people in our
society.
In the last 3 years, the House awarded grant
funding of over £650k to local charities, including those providing
bereavement services for children, combatting loneliness for
isolated older people, or offering safe spaces for homeless people.
We also awarded funding to food banks, social activities for
youngsters from disadvantaged areas, community arts projects and
support for young carers.
There's a high chance that those working in Glasgow's IFSD will
have contributed towards that grant funding by attending a meeting,
conference or social event in our historic building opposite Queen
Street Station. We welcome thousands of visitors every year and are
very grateful for the support of the local business community and
of our membership.
Learn more about The Merchants House by visiting their website.