Businesses team up to boost charity work

CHARITIES and social groups can be given a helping hand under a new venture that encourages the city’s leading employers to act together for the greater good.

Called Side by Side, the initiative’s focal point is a website that puts firms and local groups and organisations in touch.

But organisers say the aim is not to duplicate other social work carried out by firms but to help make those efforts more effective by improving communication and creating a one-stop-shop website that provides ideas and contacts.

Side by Side was launched yesterday at a ceremony held at Perkins Engines in Eastern Industry, Peterborough.

The website is the result of collaboration between travel giant Thomas Cook, Perkins, Anglia Co-operative, housing association Cross Keys Homes, Queensgate shopping centre in Peterborough, Enterprise, Greenwoods, Speed, Athene Communications and Diligenta.

Yvonne Puplett, corporate social responsibility manager at Perkins, said: “As one of the largest employers in the city, we take our responsibility to actively contribute to the community very seriously.

“We know the contributions, both financially and through voluntary work, made by Perkins and other local businesses are already making a difference in Peterborough.

“But we want to be assured that our support is directed in the right place to address the challenges the city faces and really have a lasting impact for the good of the community.”

Rod Allerton, head of charity and community relations for Thomas Cook, said: “This shows how committed the private sector is to Peterborough and how much it wants to help the city achieve its ambitions as well as tackle its greatest challenges.”

Peterborough City Council leader Councillor Marco Cereste said: “By working together we can do so much more for the good of the city.

“This brilliant new idea draws on many of Peterborough’s strengths.”

Projects already listed as a priority on the forum include the Forest for Peterborough and the Green Festival.

Side by Side can be found at www.sidebysidecsr. co.uk in particular activities, such as Peterborough’s Volunteer Centre, Cambridgeshire Community Foundation, Prohelp, Business in the Community and various local high-profile fundraising campaigns.

Current priorities for Side by Side are skills and employability, health and well-being, and the environment.

Website users can search for any combination of themes and activities depending on their focus and the interests of staff.