Brian Sims
Editor
Brian Sims
Editor
BRITISH SECURITY Industry Association founder member Securitas UK has been working with homeless charities and funding initiatives that will mean the delivery of hot meals and accommodation for those who find themselves in need of such specific services, as well as key provisions to assist in a better quality of life.
Working with Calderwood House in Cumbria, which was set up to help people experiencing homelessness to be back on their feet, Securitas’ charitable donations have funded a bedroom for a year as well as offering residents access to a variety of courses, including Fire Marshall, First Aid and Mental Health First Aid and helping them develop their CV writing and interview skills.
In addition to this, Securitas has donated furniture and computer equipment within the ‘Hub’ (a communal room within Calderwood House), loaned a minibus for a year for day trips, which will also assist with the 12-week recovery recreational programme, and purchased a stock of warm hats, gloves, jackets and some high-vis outer layers for individuals to wear when out and about. Indeed, Securitas’ excellent work has been recognised through a shortlisting for the Sustainability Social Value Champion Award at the BECBCA Awards.
Securitas UK has also been working with the Kokni Muslim Association, which runs a homeless charity in Birmingham, where the company raised £15,000 from the proceeds of its charity single, Ascending, written and performed by its officers and staff. Securitas UK has supported and funded over 30,000 meals so far and raised enough money to fund an average of 150 hot meals every Friday and Saturday night until early 2024.
Company-wide effort
Shaun Kennedy, chief operating officer for central Europe at Securitas, commented: “I’ve witnessed first-hand how crucial our support is, how appreciated it is and how desperately needed it is. This is a company-wide effort that is so important to this community.”
Kennedy added: “Recently, it was a pleasure to sit and talk with the people we are trying to help, such as 85-year-old Frank, who relies on the shelter and our support. He spoke to me about the household bills he cannot afford and how he feels the local councils and society, in general, have let him and others down.”
In conclusion, Kennedy stated: “Frank worked for 45 years. He shouldn’t be struggling through each day like he is.”
*To learn more about the company’s charitable work visit the Securitas UK website
