Ibstock has joined forces with Shelter in a new charity partnership. The manufacturer of clay and concrete building products has a rich history of engaging with communities and over the years has raised funds for many different causes.
Over the next two years, the group will raise vital funds for the housing and homeless charity through a series of fundraising initiatives, with a target of £50,000 in the first year.
On Wednesday 18 September, Ibstock Chief Executive Officer Joe Hudson was joined by Jeannie Pitt, Partnership Manager at Shelter, to officially launch the partnership at its head office.
Throughout the week there were a number of other fundraising activities to mark the launch including a static Bikeathon which saw Ibstock staff at Leicester ‘cycle’ 465 miles – the distance between the Group’s two most distant sites of Mossend and Swanage – and a guess the weight cake competition. Staff were also encouraged to wear red to work to show their support for the charity.
As part of its efforts to raise funds, the company has appointed 50 ‘charity champions’ across its operating sites. These champions were part of the charity partner decision making process and will help bring staff together to have fun whilst raising money.
Joe Hudson, Chief Executive of Ibstock, commented: “A home is a fundamental human need. But in Britain today, that right is being denied to millions of people whose lives are blighted by homelessness, bad conditions, soaring rents, discrimination and the threat of eviction. We believe we must contribute to the solution through our products, skills and fundraising which is why we are delighted to announce our partnership with Shelter – an organisation that shares our values and purpose. Together we will work with them to raise vital funds to support people who are experiencing homelessness and bad housing.”
Andy Harris, Director of Fundraising at Shelter, commented: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Ibstock to raise vital funds for people struggling with homelessness and bad housing. We want to make sure we’re there for the millions of people facing the housing emergency who turn to us for help. It is thanks to the generosity of businesses like Ibstock and their employees, that our services can continue to thrive and make an impact.”
The charity partnership forms part of Ibstock’s Sustainability Roadmap 2025. Under Communities, the group has committed to making a positive contribution to the locations in which it operates and support the most vulnerable in society.
