Helping children & families in need this Christmas

In December, we focused on supporting children and families, recognising the challenges brought on by the Cost of Living crisis. The magic of Christmas can sometimes be overshadowed by financial hardships, so our offices in the UK and Europe took part in fundraising and volunteering to help those in need.

Due to the ongoing Cost of Living crisis and the growing struggles faced by families, many children miss out on the joy of Christmas. According to the Salvation Army, 67% of people in the UK struggled to afford Christmas dinner and 14% cannot afford to give their children a present. It is a reminder that, even in the season of generosity, there are those who need our support more than ever.

 

Christmas Jumper Day

Embracing the festive spirit, employees from across our offices took part in Christmas Jumper Day. It gave everyone an opportunity to wear their jazziest jumpers in the office while raising money for good causes. 

United Kingdom - Hestia
The UK raised money for Hestia, a charity that supports migrant victims of domestic abuse and modern slavery and their families. 

Spain - The Pere Tarres Fundación
Spain supported the Pere Tarres Fundación, a charity whose mission is to improve the well-being of vulnerable children through education and social action. 

Germany - Kindertafel
Germany raised funds for Kindertafel in Düsseldorf, where one in four children is considered 'poor'. The charity ensures every child in need receives a hot lunch everyday in school.

France - Les Restos du Coeur
Les Restos du Coeur assists 9.2 million people living below the poverty line in France, with families and children being the most affected. 

Luxembourg - Caritas Jeunes & Famille
In Luxembourg, Caritas Jeunes & Famille provides year-round support to families, shaping the futures of young people and children.

Volunteering to help those in need

Our colleagues embraced the spirit of Christmas by giving back to their communities.

 

In London, our team volunteered with Hestia by transforming six refuges for domestic abuse victims into winter wonderlands filled with festive decorations. It was especially touching hearing a woman staying in the refuge explain that this was her first ever Christmas tree in freedom with her son. Our Company Secretarial team also volunteered with Step Forward, a local charity that supports disadvantaged young people facing struggles in life and helps them to thrive, develop, grow and reach their full potential. The team organised a Christmas party for young LGBTQ+ people, decorated the venue, prepared food and refreshments and wrapped gifts together.

 

In Barcelona, the team volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House to transform the living spaces of families in need with enchanting Christmas decorations. Over in The Netherlands, our colleagues are also volunteering with the Ronald McDonald House to put together large goodie bags for parents of sick children, ensuring they get some festive cheer in their most difficult times. Joining forces with Les Restos Du Coeur, our colleagues in Paris demonstrated their best gift-wrapping skills in department stores to raise money for the charity.

 

Finally, our Bridgend office took part in the Mr. X Toy Appeal, which is in its 63rd year. The team donated gifts to 27 children in South Wales and lit up their faces this Christmas.

 

As we start the New Year, we are aiming to continue making a difference in the lives of those who need it most and embodying our ethos “To Be a Good Company” all year round.