Awards for Excellence 2009 logo

Business Volunteering Team Regional Award

Winner: Cambridge University Press

It’s great that Cambridge University Press supports nature and wildlife conservation in this way.  A day like this not only helps the charity but it’s a good opportunity to get to know your colleagues better, too.

As one of the largest employers in Cambridge, Cambridge University Press is keen to engage with a diverse range of local communities.  As well as supporting local initiatives with printing, books and cash, one of the most significant contributions they are able to make is through their workforce. 

To support their staff, Cambridge University Press recognise employee involvement with the local community through their Volunteer Hours programme.  Staff are eligible to take up to seven paid “volunteer hours” per calendar year.

Since the programme was officially set up in 2007, the number of volunteers has risen to almost 140 (almost one-fifth of the UK based publishing staff). 

The key beneficiaries of Cambridge University Press’ volunteering programme are the Wildlife Trust, local schools, Refugees from Fitzwilliam House and the Science Festival and the Festival of Ideas organised by the University of Cambridge.

Impact

  • Work done by teams on the Wildlife Trust reserves enhances the reserves – a free resource for the local community
  • Teachers are supported by skilled staff in particular subject areas
  • Free lessons and materials from Press staff help improve English literacy amongst teenagers from countries such as Afghanistan, Algeria and Vietnam

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