The Wilkes Partnership launches firm-wide Volunteering Policy

The Wilkes Partnership recently launched their firm-wide Volunteering Policy which forms part of their ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. The policy allows employees of the firm to take up to two additional days paid leave per year to volunteer at organised community projects.

One of the core aspects of Wilkes’ CSR initiative is supporting the local community through volunteering, the recently launched policy further broadens the opportunity for employees to do this and build stronger connections within the community.

The firm already have many members of staff who volunteer for various clubs and charities in their own time. This includes managing a local youth football team and serving on the committee of a local swimming club, volunteering with their animals and mentoring. The policy will ensure that they are further supported in the work that they do whilst encouraging members of staff who may not currently volunteer to get involved.

Rachael Chambers, Solicitor comments: “I have been volunteering as a Samaritans Listening Volunteer for almost 4 years. Samaritans vision is that less people die by suicide. They operate a phone, email and online chat listening service and are available 24/7.

“Being a Samaritan has been such an eye opening and rewarding experience. I have learnt so many skills through volunteering and also met some amazing people. It has also given me opportunity to become involved in other events, such as attending festivals and events to raise awareness of Samaritans, and walking with Samaritans in Pride parade.

“I think that it’s fantastic that the firm have launched the Volunteering Policy, it makes those already volunteering feel further supported. This will allow us to put in additional work with our chosen charities as well as opening up new opportunities to possibly volunteer at another organisation as well.”

Ann-Marie Aston, Partner and Head of the Corporate Social Responsibility Team comments: “I’m very proud to announce the launch of Wilkes’ Volunteering Policy. At the firm we want to ensure that we not only give back to the community but that our staff feel encouraged and supported in doing so. This is a great opportunity for all of the team at Wilkes to get into the local community and build strong bonds whilst also enhancing our CSR initiative.”