Company says staff can help good causes

GOOD causes across Leicestershire are getting a boost from gas distributor Cadent.

The Hinckley-based group is paying for its staff to have two days of paid volunteer leave each month to support local charities.

This can be helping out a food bank or joining a group to deliver medicine and food supplies to those who are vulnerable or self-isolating.

Steve Fraser, chief executive of Cadent, said: “We are a community-based company with a strong track record in supporting vulnerable people.

“In a time of national crisis, we felt it was right to step up that support for those who most need our help.

“Our staff are doing a fantastic job, keeping people warm and safe during this difficult time.

“We know that many want to support efforts to help the most vulnerable but because of childcare or other obligations, are not able to do it in their own time.”

If every member of staff took up the offer, it would amount to 8,000 volunteering days each month.

The scheme will initially run during April and May.

The project is in addition to the new statutory Employee Volunteering Leave brought in by the Coronavirus Act 2020, which is targeted at workers who have suitable medical or social care skills and experience and can support health and social care groups.

Many of Cadent’s staff are on the frontline, continuing to keep gas supplies flowing and attending gas emergencies, such as gas escapes and carbon monoxide leaks, during the outbreak.

Public safety is the company’s top priority and extra precautions are being taken to ensure customers and employees remain safe.

More information is available on the company’s website.