Firms urged to back community groups

Businesses across Greater Manchester are being urged to rally in support of cash-strapped community groups.

A national day of volunteering — Give & Gain Day 2012 — takes place on Friday, May 18, with bosses and staff encouraged to sign up to take part.

The plea follows warnings that as many as one in four voluntary sector organisations in Greater Manchester could face closure due to funding cuts.

The Business in the Community charity says local firms can play a vital role in helping to plug the gap.

Regional director Raksha Pattni said: “Give & Gain Day 2012 is a chance for companies to show that they are really committed to their communities.

“At a time when vital services for the young, the marginalised and the vulnerable are under greater strain than ever, Greater Manchester’s businesses can show their solidarity and give local communities a much needed boost by sending out teams of volunteers to help in schools, day centres and youth groups.”

More than 200 employees from businesses across the area volunteered last year, making a contribution worth an estimated £20,000.

In a survey of participating companies, 87 per cent of employees reported that their perception of their company had improved, while 80 per cent felt more committed to their employer.

Last year 535 businesses and over 27,500 volunteers participated in community projects across the UK, providing 3.3 million man hours.