CSR & Making a Difference
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~Stephen Moffatt, National Policy Manager, Barnardos Read more on Page
Putting values into action with a dynamic charity partnership
By partnering with charities, companies get the chance to do good and inspire their employees, says Rosie Begley, Social Impact Manager at roadside retailer Applegreen.
Do employees appreciate it when their companies partner with charities?
I think they want to work for companies that offer volunteering opportunities and community engagement. It says something about an organisation’s values. We began a three-year partnership with the children’s charity Barretstown in 2023, and our people love it.
It’s a great charity founded in 1994 by the late Hollywood actor, Paul Newman, based at Barretstown Castle in County Kildare. It offers free, specially designed camps and programmes for children and their families living with a serious illness. Part of our support includes sponsoring a week-long Summer Camp and their Winter Wonderland Christmas event.
What inspired the partnership?
This partnership aligns perfectly with our core values—especially our commitment to placing communities at the heart of everything we do. Families connected to Barretstown often travel long distances for treatment and stop at our service stations across the country. We want to be there for them on their journey.
How many families are expected to benefit from your support?
More than 27,000. From the outset, we made a commitment to raise €1 million over three years to support over 3,000 days of the charity’s therapeutic camp programmes. We’ve already raised €1.6 million. We couldn’t have done that without the generosity of our communities.
How have your employees been involved in the partnership?
They’ve taken part in volunteer days to prepare for upcoming Barretstown camps, doing things like painting, sweeping and cleaning accommodation. They also get involved in fundraising activities. For example, this August, 100 colleagues are taking part in a three-day Barretstown Cycle Challenge. Apart from fundraising, it’s also a team-building event.
What have been some memorable moments in the partnership?
Hitting our €1 million target ahead of time was one. Also, in March last year, we won first prize in the Blackstone Gives Back Challenge, a competition administered by the Blackstone Charitable Foundation for Blackstone portfolio companies to pitch nonprofits. That secured $300,000 for Barretstown and was a huge milestone for us.
Corporate philanthropy as a strategic force for good
ASocial Impact
Corporate philanthropy in Ireland is no longer just about writing cheques. It’s about meaningful, strategic action that creates lasting impact.
s businesses increasingly recognise their role in society, corporate giving is becoming a powerful tool for change — and it’s time more companies stepped into this space.
Impact of corporate philanthropy
More and more, Irish businesses are recognising their role in addressing the country’s pressing social challenges, from housing and education to climate and mental health. At Philanthropy Ireland, we work closely with corporate members who are leading the way, showing that philanthropy can be strategic, impactful and embedded in business culture. These companies are not only supporting communities; they’re also engaging employees, building trust and strengthening their own purpose.
Different paths, shared purpose
From our engagement with corporate members, one key insight stands out: there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Each organisation takes a different path; some lead with employee volunteering, others with targeted funding or long-term community programmes. What unites them is a shared commitment to purpose. When corporate giving is aligned with business values, it becomes
more focused, authentic and impactful. This kind of purposeful philanthropy builds trust and delivers meaningful outcomes, not just short-term gestures.
People power
Many of our members highlight the importance of employee involvement. Whether it is volunteer programmes, payroll giving or staff-led grant making, these initiatives energise teams and deepen the connection between business and community. Beyond the social impact, engaging employees in philanthropy builds morale, strengthens workplace culture and fosters a sense of shared purpose that extends beyond the office.
What can businesses do now?
If you’re new to corporate giving, now is the time to begin. There’s a strong and growing community of practice in Ireland to tap into and learn from. If you’re already active, consider how you can go further: share your impact stories, reassess your strategy and focus on longterm partnerships.
Philanthropy Ireland is here to support that journey. Together, we can raise the bar on corporate philanthropy — not as an obligation, but as a mindset and opportunity to help shape a better, more inclusive Ireland.
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Sponsored by Applegreen
Rosie Begley
Manager, Applegreen ROI
Hazel Hennessy Head of Communications and Relationships, Philanthropy Ireland
WRITTEN BY Tony Greenway
Why corporate giving is transformative for charities — and good for your business
Corporate giving is vital for charities. Helping them with financial donations or lending them your time or company resources can make a real difference in the work they do.
In today’s financially precarious world, corporate giving is more important than ever. If you’re a small, medium or large business that wants to help a cause or charity, the impact of your philanthropy can be life-changing to the work that charitable organisations do — and, by extension, to the communities and individuals they support.
Ways to get involved with corporate giving
There are many ways you can get involved with corporate giving, explains Mary Gamble, Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications at one of Ireland’s largest children’s charity, Barnardos. It doesn’t always have to involve getting out the company chequebook.
“We have a number of strategic partnerships with well-known household brands that go over and above financial donations,” she says. “For example, we share skills and expertise. Our partners can help us with our training needs and we can offer them, say, cyber-safety workshops, so parents can keep their children safe online. They may offer us a meeting room to use for big gatherings, giving us access to a space we would otherwise be unable to afford.” Plus, a company’s employees may want to get involved with charitable fund-raising, donating or volunteering activities.
that it is authentic about charitable giving. It’s a two-way street.”
Corporate support can have far-reaching social impacts For Barnardos, corporate support can have hugely positive and far-reaching social impacts. “In recent years, we’ve seen an increase in issues surrounding children’s mental health,” notes Stephen Moffatt, the charity’s National Policy Manager.
If you’re a small, medium or large business that wants to help a cause or charity, the impact of your philanthropy can be life-changing.
“This type of partnership works on many levels,” acknowledges Gamble. “It increases awareness of our brand. And it supports a business’s ESG strategy by demonstrating
Why Irish businesses should integrate global philanthropy into CSR strategies
For Irish companies seeking to strengthen their corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies, adopting a global perspective isn’t just good ethics — it’s good business.
Making a global impact, enhancing corporate value
When Irish businesses support global initiatives that tackle poverty and injustice, the outcomes can be lifechanging for vulnerable communities — and reputation-enhancing for the companies involved. As Niamh Dockery, Philanthropy Advisor at Trócaire, explains: “It’s the world’s poorest countries that are hit hardest by climate change — countries that have contributed least to the crisis. Irish companies serious about sustainability have an opportunity to lead by example on the global stage.”
By aligning with global philanthropic causes, companies not only help solve urgent challenges but also demonstrate authentic leadership, strengthen brand trust and build lasting social capital. Dockery puts it simply: “If you have
“Young people are having to navigate the online world and have more concerns about their future. We’ve also seen how mental health, poverty and addiction issues can affect parents. So, there’s a great demand for our services at a local level. Corporate giving allows us to better meet that need and provide essential programmes that support local communities, families and children. Early intervention matters; it can be transformative. Barnardos sees the impact of that early support first hand — we know that childhoods last a lifetime.”
Deciding which charity to partner with Gamble suggests choosing a charity that most aligns with your company values and getting buy-in from all areas of your business. “Once you’ve narrowed it down, do your due diligence and look at the governance of the organisation you’re thinking about partnering with,” she says. “Also, think about what you want to achieve with them — and the difference you want to make together.”
a platform to make a difference, why wouldn’t you use it?”
Real benefits, real results
Businesses that engage globally see tangible results. Take the example of Aerogen, a Galway-based medtech company. In partnership with Trócaire, Aerogen’s founder John Power helped build a fully equipped hospital in Dollow, Somalia, transforming healthcare access for one of the world’s most at-risk populations. The hospital now treats 2,500 patients each month, providing life-saving care for mothers and malnourished children.
Meanwhile, Aerogen staff worldwide raised funds to build classrooms in Dollow, improving educational access, particularly for girls. Similarly, Merlon Developments in Kildare is leveraging its networks
to help deliver renewable energy solutions to the new Dollow hospital through partners like Solar Homes Galway.
Global giving builds stronger brands
CSR initiatives focused only on local impact may overlook the potential for global partnerships to inspire customers, engage employees and elevate a company’s public profile.
“Unfortunately, many businesses don’t yet include global philanthropy in their CSR plans,” says Dockery.
“That’s a missed opportunity. The impact can be huge, not just for the communities supported, but for the businesses themselves.”
From values to action: how to begin
Many companies don’t know where to start. Yet, the process is straightforward — and deeply rewarding. “It begins with a conversation,” says Dockery. “We meet, explore the company’s values and look for compelling opportunities to bring those values to life. The more committed a business is — financially and strategically — the more meaningful and lasting the impact.”
The bottom line
Global philanthropy isn’t just charity; it’s strategy. For Irish businesses, it’s a chance to lead with integrity, drive positive change, and build a reputation for impact far beyond national borders.
ImageprovidedbyTrócaire
Niamh Docker y w th Mahatfamily Gedo
Mary Gamble Director of Fundraising, Marketing and Communications, Barnardos
Stephen Moffatt National Policy Manager, Barnardos
Niamh Dockery Philanthropy Advisor, Trócaire
Read more at barnardos.ie
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Sponsored by Barnardos
Sponsored by Trócaire
WRITTEN BY Tony Greenway
WRITTEN BY Tony Greenway
your
- Simon Harris,
How Ireland’s humanitarian force is trained to respond in a crisis
Highly trained Irish Red Cross volunteers perform a crucial role, both at home and abroad. Their focus includes providing urgent support and life-saving first aid to those in need.
In times of crisis, it’s comforting to know that there are people who will always step forward to serve others. Dedicated and selfless people who help without fanfare — and without waiting to be asked. This is how the volunteers of the Irish Red Cross operate.
Humanitarian aid and resilience
For over 85 years, the organisation has played a vital role in responding to crises both at home and abroad.
From Myanmar to Midleton and Mayo, from Gaza to Galway, from Ukraine to Creeslough, its people have been there to provide essential first aid and emergency response to those in need.
“This is what we do,” says Deirdre Garvey, Secretary General, Irish Red Cross. “While we are known for our international humanitarian response, we don’t only help those in need overseas. We also operate as a humanitarian response force for Ireland. Our focus is clear. We want to empower communities to become more resilient in the face of disaster, and we want to support those who are isolated, vulnerable or in crisis. None of this can happen without our 4,000 volunteer humanitarians, who are highly trained, trusted and ready to act.”
Reaching vulnerable people affected by Storm Éoywn
That includes people like Aiden Lonergan who, by day, works as an inspector in An Garda Síochána. He also serves as National Director of Community Support, a volunteer
role he holds with the Irish Red Cross — and is always fully prepared to put his skills into action.
In February, Lonergan was one of the 90 volunteers mobilised in response to the record-breaking Storm Éoywn, which battered counties across Ireland with 184km/h winds, causing fear and devastation in many communities. It particularly threatened those in rural locations who were cut off by the storm and faced increasing isolation, physical and mental health issues and a slide into poverty.
Two weeks in, some of the people they found were very cold, having had no heating or power. Some had health issues; others had mobility issues. “Our role was to reach the most isolated and vulnerable during the crisis,” he explains. “We assessed their immediate needs, including access to power, water and medical needs and promptly alerted relevant service providers where required. We offered people welfare packs — which included five-litre bottles of water, milk, newspapers, wet wipes and hand sanitiser — but our primary value was human connection and conversation.”
Responding and helping to strengthen local communities
With severe weather events on the rise, the skills of these volunteers are more in demand than ever. In January, they provided services in deep snow and ice-affected areas of Cork, Limerick, Kerry, Tipperary, Laois, Donegal, Wicklow, Waterford,
Wexford and South County Dublin.
More than 50 volunteers were out in four-wheel-drive ambulances and other vehicles, supporting people who were isolated and trapped in difficult-to-access locations and ensuring that those who needed to could get to hospital or be given time-sensitive home care procedures.
Last year, they responded to help when homes and livelihoods were devastated by sudden floods in Bantry and Midleton, helping communities get back on their feet. In 2022, they were on the scene in the aftermath of the devastating Creeslough explosion, offering humanitarian support to those affected.
Volunteer dedication and care
Garvey never ceases to be amazed and humbled by the dedication of Irish Red Cross volunteers.
“From driving our ambulances or treating injuries, to helping people whose homes or businesses have been destroyed by storm damage, they use their skills, passion and kindness to help people when they need it most,” she says. “Their knowledge and insight into local communities and training on how to engage with those at risk are key strengths. We cannot thank them enough for what they do to provide care in a crisis and help strengthen our local communities.”
redcross.ie
Deirdre Garvey Secretary General, Irish Red Cross
Aiden Lonergan National Director of Community Support, Irish Red Cross
Spread sponsored by Irish Red Cross
Red Cross Volunteers were out every single day in Galway and Mayo during Storm Éowyn, carrying out 550 welfare checks, and supporting those made most vulnerable by the storm. We recognise and thank you for your service, for your commitment and
deep sense of humanity.
Tánaiste
WRITTEN BY Tony Greenway
Image provided by Irish Red Cross
Ireland helps Ukrainians recover from the trauma of war
Trauma therapy reduces symptoms of PTSD by up to 40% for Ukrainians who — scarred by tragedy and loss — have fled the conflict to restart their lives in Ireland.
Since February 2022, the war in Ukraine has caused widespread emotional trauma. Targeted mental health support is vital for conflictaffected populations that are prone to experience significant mental disorders — far higher rates of PTSD, depression and anxiety.
Hundreds of Ukrainians who fled to Ireland are receiving trauma therapy from the Irish Red Cross. This powerful intervention helps them process trauma, reframe memories and regain control of their mental health. By learning practical techniques, clients are empowered to manage their wellbeing and support others facing similar challenges.
Improving the quality of relationships between client and therapist
Funded by the EU, this service is made possible by people like Violeta Bialkovska, a Ukrainian psychotherapist who fled to Ireland with her family. In 2023, she was recruited by the Irish Red Cross to provide free therapy in Ukrainian, helping fellow countrymen and women to rebuild their lives after fleeing unimaginable disruption, to feel seen, heard and supported.
“Women like Violeta, who are survivors themselves, are now supporting the mental health of fellow Ukrainians,” says Deirdre Garvey, Secretary General. “There is an urgent need to implement scalable mental health interventions to address the burden of trauma for those who fled conflict. We are the only organisation in Ireland providing trauma therapy in their native language. Doing so is proven to be twice as effective as working with
an interpreter. It enhances the trust, understanding and quality of the relationship between client and therapist, which leads to better outcomes.”
The Irish Red Cross also offers Psychological First Aid (PFA) to help its volunteers and frontline workers to support people in distress. Its core approach — Look, Listen, Link — is simple and effective, especially in crises like accidents, disasters, violence or war. No clinical training is needed.
“The beauty of PFA is in its simplicity,” says Olha Khoroshevska, Mental Health Manager, Irish Red Cross. “It gives frontline workers and volunteers the skills to pay attention to a distressed person’s reactions, listen actively and offer practical assistance to help address their needs. It has been a key part of our response to support Ukrainians in Ireland.”
Irish hosts support Ukrainians’ integration
Crucial emotional support has also come from the thousands of Irish people who have welcomed Ukrainians into their homes as part of the pledged accommodation programme operated by the Irish Red Cross. Many of the Irish hosts have become invaluable support networks, helping their Ukrainian guests in the transition to life in Ireland and guiding them to access essential supports and integrate into local communities.
Equipping communities to save lives when every second counts
Communities need to have the essential know-how and skills to respond in emergency situations to make Ireland a betterprepared and more resilient country.
In an uncertain world, it’s important to be prepared. The more prepared you are, the more resilient you are — and the better your response will be in an emergency.
Upskilling future humanitarian leaders
“That’s why we place such a strong focus on continuous training and upskilling,” explains Sharon Commins, Head of National Services. “We know that when first aid is delivered quickly and effectively, it can dramatically improve outcomes. Saving lives isn’t the exception — it’s something almost every one of our EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) volunteers has done. We ensure they’re equipped with the skills and confidence to respond in a crisis and to strengthen resilience across our communities. This commitment to preparedness is also why we’re always thinking ahead — investing in the next generation and ensuring they have the essential capabilities to meet tomorrow’s challenges.”
The organisation engages young people aged 4–25 in activities, events and humanitarian initiatives. Because they play such an essential role in shaping the future of the Irish Red Cross — and to empower them to drive change both locally in their communities and nationally — Irish Red Cross youth members are offered age-appropriate training sessions in everything from personal development and first aid to leadership skills and humanitarian education.
Equipping school children with essential life-saving skills
The organisation also directly engages with young people in schools. Since March, Irish Red Cross volunteer and retired ambulance paramedic with the National Ambulance Service, Pat Sheridan, has been leading a new pilot programme in Co Louth, which teaches primary school children essential life-saving response techniques.
These include how to call an ambulance; how to identify when someone needs urgent help; the basics of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR); and first aid for someone who is choking. Sheridan says: “This is more than just first aid — it’s about developing a mindset of readiness, compassion and community leadership among our young people.”
Training and skills that empower the nation
Such training isn’t limited to young people, however. Last year, the Irish Red Cross provided first aid training to 4,000 people, ranging from basic to the level of an emergency medical technician. Indeed, 260 of its volunteers have completed the highest level of training and are qualified to provide emergency medical care.
“Our work in first aid training supports the Government’s Emergency Planning Working Group and EU preparedness protocols,” says Commins. “By empowering communities with these skills, we are reducing health inequalities and helping to build a more resilient Ireland.”
Sharon Commins Head of National Services, Irish Red Cross
Pat Sheridan Volunteer, Irish Red Cross
Olha Khoroshevska Mental Health Manager, Irish Red Cross
WRITTEN BY Tony Greenway
WRITTEN BY Tony Greenway
Marina Rivas Marketing and Brand Manager, Great Place to Work Ireland
How supporting employees creates resilient cultures
True corporate social responsibility (CSR) goes beyond external commitments. It’s about building cultures of care that support employees through life’s toughest moments.
As CSR evolves, more organisations are realising that lasting impact often begins within — by creating cultures that support people through the realities of life, not just the milestones.
Qualities of a values-driven, high-trust culture
While public commitments and sustainability goals are important, the most meaningful expressions of responsibility often come through how an organisation shows up for its own people during moments of vulnerability.
At Great Place to Work, we’ve seen how values-driven, high-trust cultures go beyond surface-level perks. Truly supportive organisations proactively address the oftenunspoken challenges employees face — from menopause and serious illness to caregiving — with empathy, strong policies and tangible support.
When workplaces prioritise care, the impact extends beyond the office.
Enhancing visibility and support
Supporting employees through every life stage demands more than good intentions — it requires engaging with issues often overlooked at work. Menopause, for example, remains a silent struggle for many, despite its impact on wellbeing and performance. The Menopause
Hub — Ireland’s first dedicated menopause clinic, pioneered by menopause trailblazer Loretta Dignam — has helped bring this issue to the forefront, partnering with Great Place to Work on the Menopause Excellence Awards to recognise organisations leading the way in awareness, support and policy.
This same commitment to meaningful support underpins the Cancer Care at Work initiative, developed by Core Research and Purple House Cancer Support, in collaboration with Great Place to Work. Given that nearly one in two people in Ireland will face a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, Cancer Care at Work explores how workplaces can better support employees affected by cancer, whether as patients or carers. The initiative is based on a co-designed policy developed with employees who have lived experience and includes measures like enhanced health insurance, home and nutritional supports, flexible work options and a buddy system for returning employees.
Culture
of care driving social impact
When workplaces prioritise care, the impact extends beyond the office. Supporting employees through illness or life transitions creates a culture of empathy and connection, fostering stronger, more compassionate communities. CSR starts internally, with how we treat our people. By embedding care into everyday culture, organisations demonstrate what true responsible business looks like. On World Environment Day and beyond, the most sustainable companies are those that recognise the importance of caring for both the planet and the people who depend on it.
Why employee volunteering should be part of your business agenda in 2025
Terri O’Brien Corporate Programmes Manager, Volunteer Ireland
Employee volunteering strategically supports employee growth while helping companies achieve environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals and comply with corporate sustainability reporting directive (CSRD) requirements.
By prioritising employee engagement in volunteering, companies can foster a positive workplace culture and demonstrate a genuine commitment to community and societal responsibility.
Social impact and company culture
Volunteering not only contributes positively to communities but also strengthens corporate culture by enhancing employee satisfaction, promoting inclusion and developing key skills. By incorporating volunteering into your ESG strategy, your business can align with global standards, create a work environment of belonging and invest in both talent and communities.
Quality in employee volunteering
For employee volunteering to be most valuable, it needs to go beyond a simple team-building exercise or a feelgood initiative. Effective volunteering is a well-planned collaboration between a company and a charity, ensuring that employees’ time and skills contribute to real, identified needs within the community.
Successful volunteering programmes and activities are built on thoughtful planning, clear expectations and mutual respect. It’s important to recognise that charities operate with limited resources and must focus their core efforts and time on delivering a service to their clients. To create meaningful partnerships, businesses must be prepared to invest time, resources and flexibility. Effective volunteering is a well-planned collaboration between a company and a charity, ensuring that employees’ time and skills contribute to real, identified needs within the community.
Key considerations for meaningful volunteering
• Understand charity needs: Take time to assess how your company can provide relevant and effective support.
• Respect charity capacity: Many charities have limited resources and may not be in a position to engage large corporate groups. Be patient and supportive.
• Plan and organise effectively: Consider site visits, budgeting, safety measures and resource planning to ensure smooth collaboration.
• Flexibility and commitment: Be adaptable with scheduling and ensure enough employees are recruited and show up for the volunteer activity.
To join one of Volunteer Ireland’s weekly online employee volunteering information sessions, contact terri@volunteer.ie
• Invest in partnership: A single event is a good start whereas ongoing relationships, financial support and strategic skills-sharing create long-term benefits.
By keeping these considerations in mind, companies can create volunteering opportunities that empower employees, support communities and strengthen ESG commitments.
Why ESG isn’t risky — it’s just good business
Environmental, social and governance (ESG) is a rational, risk-aware response to a world where climate breakdown and nature loss are now top threats to global business.
The ‘Overton Window’ describes the range of ideas considered politically acceptable at any given time. Recently, some in the Trump administration have tried to shift that window by painting ESG action as extreme or risky. In reality, the opposite is true.
Why ESG drives economic stability Irish companies, many of which are subsidiaries of US firms, are not immune. If ESG becomes politically weaponised, it threatens their ability to act on climate, disclose material risks and remain globally competitive.
Every business depends on a functioning climate and ecosystems: clean water, pollination, carbon storage and temperature regulation. These aren’t luxuries; they’re the backbone of economic stability.
Supporting companies throughout climate transition
The World Economic Forum warns that climate and nature risks could cut corporate earnings by 7% by 2035. Businesses that fail to prepare could face financial losses comparable to the Covid-19 shock.
Every business depends on a functioning climate and ecosystems: clean water, pollination, carbon storage and temperature regulation.
However, carbon levels are the highest in 800,000 years (World Meteorological Organization, 2025); we have lost a staggering three quarters of the wildlife that existed in the early 1970s (Living Planet Report, 2024); and the costs of inaction are rising fast.
Corporate leadership in emissions reduction
Meeting EU climate targets requires urgent and decisive action. Businesses have a central role in reducing emissions, innovating solutions and creating a more sustainable future.
Ireland risks facing significant EU penalties for missing its 2030 climate targets, a cost that may arise within the current government’s term. This reality highlights the need for immediate cooperation between government and business. Companies must be supported to grow responsibly within a framework that encourages innovation and climate action.
Business leadership in sustainability Across Ireland, companies are already acting by cutting emissions, rethinking operations and setting new sustainability standards. These businesses are not waiting for instructions. They are building resilience and competitiveness while helping Ireland meet its climate goals.
Chambers Ireland champions the UN Sustainable Development
At Business in the Community Ireland, we’ve seen Irish companies step up. Over 60 have committed to 1.5°C-aligned targets through our Low Carbon Pledge, but action needs to accelerate. That’s why we’ve launched ‘Accelerate: The Business Pact for Climate and Nature,’ and we’re building a Centre of Excellence to support companies in creating robust Climate Transition Plans. Because while ambition is important, delivery is what matters.
Closing the ESG implementation gap
The companies that collaborate across supply chains and close the ‘implementation gap’ will be the ones still standing when the storm passes. This isn’t risky. It’s just good business.
Goals (SDGs) across the business community. Since adopting the SDGs as a strategic framework in 2019, we’ve embedded them into everything from local chamber activities to national awards programmes.
We encourage companies of all sizes to align with global best practices on sustainability. Our work focuses particularly on SDGs 5 (Gender Equality), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and 13 (Climate Action). The SDGs are targets we have signed up to achieve as a country. These goals are national commitments Ireland has pledged to achieve. As part of the global agenda, they are due to be met by 2030.
Practical steps for businesses Business leaders can take decisive
steps today to shape a sustainable future:
• Measure and reduce emissions.
• Improve sustainability across supply chains.
• Support local environmental initiatives.
• Engage staff in sustainability projects.
• Provide more sustainable options for clients and customers.
For support, your local Chamber can offer guidance and connect you to relevant resources. The Sustainable Business Toolkit is also a practical place to start.
If you are looking for inspiration, the Sustainable Business Impact Awards highlight exceptional sustainability projects led by Irish businesses. These examples, available in our awards magazine under the Events section on the Chambers Ireland website, show what is possible when companies are empowered to innovate.
The path forward
By taking ownership of sustainability goals, companies can lead the charge and shape Ireland’s climate success story. While business action is vital, lasting progress needs a supportive environment. Government and business must work together to create the policies and infrastructure for sustainable growth.
Meaghan Carmody Senior Adviser, Business in the Community Ireland
Ian Talbot Chief Executive, Chambers Ireland
A gift in your will can help children with life-limiting conditions and their
families
One way to ensure charities can continue their essential and special work is by leaving them a donation, big or small, in your will.
Cis only just starting to take off, says Brian McLoughlin, Legacy Fundraising Manager. “A lot of people aren’t aware that this type of donation is an option,” he says. “It’s important because it enables us to increase equity and access to our hospice services. We engage with families from 26 counties, so donations in wills help us reach as many children and families as possible, both at our purposebuilt hospice in Leopardstown, in hospital or the comfort of a child’s home.”
BY
harities depend on ongoing public generosity — without it, many can’t continue providing essential support during these tough economic times. Take LauraLynn, Ireland’s only children’s hospice, based in Leopardstown, Dublin with hubs in Ballinasloe, Galway and Mallow, Cork. This is a charity that provides symptom management, planned short breaks, crisis and end-of-life care for children with life-limiting conditions, plus support and bereavement care for families across Ireland.
Legacy giving supports charities Their work is offered free of charge, so one way to make sure it continues
long-term is by leaving a gift to the charity in your will. It’s relatively easy to make this type of donation, which is also known as ‘legacy giving.’ If you don’t have a will, you can either engage a solicitor to write one for you or use LauraLynn’s free will-writing service. If you already have a will but haven’t yet left a donation in it, it’s a simple enough process to add one. Whatever amount of money you leave, you can be assured that you’ll be supporting a vital cause. What’s more, any charity donations are tax-free.
Helping to reach as many children and families as possible However, in Ireland, legacy giving
Making wills part of the CSR conversation
Did you know that, despite difficulties that can occur for families without one, just 27% of Irish adults have a will in place?
According to 2024 My Legacy/Red C research, 27% is well below other countries such as the UK, where 44% have a will. The Red C poll also showed that more than half (59%) of people surveyed aged 55+ have a will compared with just 14% of those aged 35–54 and 6% of those aged 18–34, leaving a sizeable portion of the workforce without one.
A will is an important life document to have in place to protect and provide for loved ones.
Helping employees plan for the future
Of the respondents who didn’t have a will in place, close to two-thirds felt unsure about how to make a will while others thought it would be a complicated legal process. In fact, it is very straightforward. As part of Workplace CSR and HR, financial matters are often
Last year alone, LauraLynn — part of the My Legacy network of charities — engaged with 670 families. Its community teams made 3,199 community visits across Ireland, while its hospice team provided 1,677 nights of care. Meanwhile, its therapists provided 1,386 music and play therapy sessions at the hospice and in the community. “Those sessions are tailored to each individual child or family,” notes McLoughlin. “They create memories that last forever.” These are just some of the reasons why legacy giving is important — and so welcomed. “It’s wonderful to think that, beyond your life, you can benefit children and families living with illnesses,” says McLoughlin. “Leaving a donation in your will is a beautiful and powerful thing to do.”
discussed. There is an opportunity for employers to provide information about making a will and to advise that a will is an important life document to have in place to protect and provide for loved ones.
An inspiring future for charity partners
We also see the positive impact corporate CSR programmes have on our communities, often developing close relationships with the charity and the communities they serve. In the Red C poll, 40% of respondents say they give regularly to charity. Of the respondents who have a will in place, just 14% had included a gift to a cause they cared about. Well over half of the people who did not have a will in place said the thought of including a gift to charity just never occurred to them.
Yet, it’s a beautiful way for employees who engage with a charity as a result of a corporate partnership to make a lasting gift to that organisation. CSR charity partners know that legacy gifts provide sustainable, shockproof support into the future and can attest to the inspiring impact gifts in wills can have on their work.
Why not talk about wills and the power of legacy gifts for causes you care about?
Brian McLoughlin Legacy Fundraising Manager, LauraLynn Children’s Hospice
Sponsored by LauraLynn
WRITTEN
Tony Greenway
Niall O’Sullivan Chairperson, My Legacy
Find out more at
lauralynn.ie
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