Corporate Social Responsibility A
s the coronavirus pandemic continues to impact businesses, it is crucial that corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts aren’t put on the back burner. Instead, businesses should tailor their plans to meet the demands of the new normal, adapting and approaching their local community with a sense of care. Among the benefits of investing in a CSR strategy is creating an accessible ‘human’ identity, and a company with a strong social conscience will create a positive Image to clients and customers as well as its employees and potential employees. Businesses have a chance to give back to those who have supported their growth pre-pandemic. However, adaptation is needed, and business leaders must realign their efforts to suit the current climate – communication with the organisation they are supporting is key here. Shoppers and clients enjoy playing their part by supporting businesses that share their success with those who need it. Workers want to feel they are part of something bigger than
just an office. CSR efforts allow employees to channel empathy, understanding, and support into their work. Considering the importance of social responsibility to a business’s employees, it’s crucial businesses communicate ongoing CSR strategies and commitments, even as they change. Part of this could include asking employees to participate in the strategy from the start. You could consider sending an email to staff, discussing the company’s ongoing CSR policy welcoming suggestions on approaches and local causes which the business can support. Since the pandemic, a shift in the awareness of our local communities and charities has occurred. Many of our Leicestershire business community have created opportunities to support not only the business in their communities, but the charities too. The charities that we have talked to in this feature have all commented that they have been taken aback by the response of local businesses to their support in the pandemic, and of course, this response will need to continue.
Changing lives in Leicester & Leicestershire Voluntary Action LeicesterShire (VAL) is a charity that has been helping local people to change their lives for the better for over 50 years. Supporting local charities by providing advice, training and resources Promoting volunteering across the city and county Helping people find work through our YES and GREAT projects Supporting people with learning disabilities to live fulfilling lives Low-cost office space for local businesses and charities
If you’d like to help VAL improve the lives of local people, get in touch with us today
valonline.org.uk helpline@valonline.org.uk 0116 257 5050
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