Each charity we work with helps us understand the many and varied challenges our community faces. We have supported so many over the years we couldn't list them, but in more recent times we have developed links with South Lakes Carers, South Lakeland Hydrotherapy Trust and this last year our focus was Springfield.
A Year of Fundraising for Springfield Domestic Abuse Charity
Now we have come to the end of our year of fundraising for Springfield, it’s time to reflect on what was achieved. Springfield is a charity based in Cumbria that supports victims of domestic abuse both female and male. We hosted a quiz night, had raffles, and even sold some old filing cabinets. Our two main fundraising success stories were a Casino Night at the Castle Green Hotel and the Coniston to Barrow 21-mile sponsored walk. In total we raised £3000.
Although it’s not a huge sum of money in the grand scheme of things, we try to think about not only how much money we can raise, but the wider impact. So here are the other benefits of working with a charity!
Pro Bono work for charity clients
Giving our expertise in Financial Planning for free to vulnerable clients who find themselves in difficulty, helping them create a plan with the next steps no matter how small to enable the victims of domestic abuse to take back control. Liz our MD has been holding monthly drop-in sessions to support Springfield clients with this.
Pro Bono work for charity staff
We also offered the same support to the staff. This is the kind of HR benefit that small organisations can rarely prioritise for their teams.
Donations of clothing and household items
We have collected clothes and other items to donate to Springfield for those fleeing their homes in need of emergency supplies.
Raising awareness with clients and the wider public via social media
We have used our profile, our newsletter and social media to raise awareness of a charity some may not be aware of.
Team building and creating social occasions to enjoy together
We had great fun organising and enjoying the social occasions while fundraising, it helps with team building and making memories together for our staff. We especially enjoyed the pain of completing the Coniston to Barrow walk! Definitely character forming!
Helping to increase our understanding of the different types of vulnerability
On a serious note, in our professional capacity, we undertake training to understand the different types of vulnerability that can impact people's financial decisions and understanding. This partnership raised awareness of coercion and control and the impact of this on someone's finances.
Of course, along with the other charities we have worked with, we now have a lasting connection with Springfield and will continue to support them where we can.