Reed’s Global Action Network

As the ripple effects of the pandemic became clear, the idea of pooling all the goodwill shown by the Reed’s community led us to create the Reed’s Global Action Network (or RGAN as it fondly became known) at the end of March.

Within minutes of launching through personal emails and across social media, we had a huge response from ORs in particular, but it extended to parents, current pupils and both former and current staff.

From as far as Switzerland to Connecticut and Guildford to West Yorkshire, our ORs rubber-stamped what we already knew – how great our alumni community is, across all age groups and in every corner of the world.

As we know, difficult times often bring out the best in humanity, so it was heart-warming to see the offers coming flooding in. There were all sorts, including offers to collect prescriptions, to walk dogs, to mow lawns, to deliver food, to provide beds to those stranded overseas and, simply, to be on the other end of a phone for a comforting chat.

A few interesting stats:

The greatest number of offers came from ORs who left between 2000 and 2019! ORs from 1959 (now putting them well into their 70s) were just as keen to offer help to others!

ORs who were in Capel and Blathwayt were the ones to make the most offers! We had more offers of help from men!

We had offers of help from ORs globally in The Netherlands Switzerland, Melbourne, Sydney, Western Australia, Connecticut, with the most exotic offer coming from an OR in Waigeo Selatan in Indonesia!

These are just a few of the lovely comments we received:

“Honestly, I’d do anything. I just want to help where it’s needed.”

“I think this is a brilliant initiative and I applaud the School’s proactive approach to helping others.”

“What a brilliant concept and a fantastic way to use the OR international network.” “What a kind, inspiring initiative.”

“Just ask please!”

“I would offer ironing, however, it’s not my best skill… my shirts are currently a state, but happy to be a chauffeur!