Businesses Collaborate To Support

More than 30 employees from three businesses in Cardiff joined forces today to undertake a large-scale team challenge at Cardiff & Vale NHS Trust Supported Housing’s allotment in Heath.

A vital resource for the NHS-run housing and support project for adults with mental health problems, the allotment had become overgrown and was in desperate need of a complete makeover.

Organised by Business in the Community’s Cares campaign – the main business-led employee volunteering programme in the UK – the businesses worked tirelessly in teams of ten to tackle the challenge.

Equipped with secateurs, rakes and shovels, the business volunteers from Thames Water, Enterprise Rent-A-Car and British Gas cleared the overgrowth, painted shed windows, created raised beds and laid pathways – all in one day.

Alicia Stringfellow, a Team Manager for Cardiff & Vale NHS Trust said: “The support we have received from Business in the Community and local business has been fantastic. 

“We are delighted with how much has been achieved in such a short period of time and look forward to bringing our service users here to grow produce and ensure the good work is maintained.

“Mental health services within Cardiff & Vale NHS Trust are committed to providing appropriate in-patient and community based facilities to those with mental health problems.  An enthusiastic and creative approach in the provision and delivery of care enables service users to reach their full potential and optimum independence”.

Kirsti Allsop of British Gas added: “The action day was an excellent way for us to work together as a team away from the office environment, while at the same time supporting a local community initiative.”

Tracy Rees, Business Development Manager at BITC said: “Action days are a real chance to make an impact in just one day, as well as providing an excellent opportunity for participating businesses to boost team building, staff morale, motivation and personal development.”