We work with local charities and organizations because we want to play an active role in our neighbourhood. The charities, groups and schools we team up with reflect a broad range of local needs and concerns. And because of the nature of our business, we also work with organisations that are involved in media education.
We have 10 community partners and, last year, delivered more than 40 projects with 400+ volunteers contributing 4000+ hours. The number of volunteers and hours has increased over the past three years but, because staff numbers have grown, the overall percentage is the same as last year with 25.5% of staff volunteering during 2014/15.
We support our community partners through joint projects, sharing ideas, resources and staff volunteering. Our aim is to build trust and long-term relationships – we have worked with some of our partners for almost 15 years. But the Guardian also has national and international reach with its campaigning work and highlighting issues and fundraising such as the Christmas appeal or work of the Guardian foundation, which supports liberal journalism across the world.
Our projects with local partners are individually tailored and developed as needs change over time. Occasionally, we respond to ad hoc requests, such as help with finding space to host an event. We can’t always oblige but our feedback surveys make it clear that our partners are very comfortable with asking for extra help when it is needed.
Working both ways
Our community programme pay dividends for GNM as well as partners. Volunteering helps members of staff to achieve individual goals and supports collaborative working, which is a key part of GNM’s business strategy. Here are some responses from our most recent survey of staff who volunteer:
Increased employee engagement and productivity:
“Volunteering is a vital part of making me more effective as a member of the GNM workforce. That precious 45 minutes once a week where I get out of the office and immerse myself in a completely different world makes me return refreshed and renewed every time to my paid-for duties. Everyone should do it!”
Pride in the business:
“I love volunteering, it makes me feel like the company cares about the local area, and I feel very proud to work here.”
Staff well-being:
“I love my volunteering - I really look forward to it each week and it gives me a real sense of well-being. I would highly recommend it.”
Volunteering has:
•has helped me connect with new colleagues - 100%
• increased my job satisfaction - 80%
•increased my pride in GNM – 92%
• increased my sense of happiness & wellbeing - 100%
•has helped me learn new skills – 88%
You can read more about our main projects and partners for 2014/15 here.
