LAW
Muckle was the first law firm in the North East and Cumbria to gain B Corp accreditation . Pictured ( from left ) are : Jason Wainwright , Nicola Leyden , Debbie McCormack and Hugh Welch .
The power of collaboration
Unlocking the ‘ win-win ’ in charity and corporate partnerships
Corporate partnerships hold considerable value for charities and not-for-profit organisations , with the Charities Aid Foundation ( CFA ) estimating that UK businesses contribute a total of around £ 4.29bn to the sector .
But it ’ s not just about money . Through meaningful collaboration , both sides can benefit hugely , leading to a real impact on our communities and environment . But what does that mean in practice ?
Traditionally , these relationships have been ( and often still are ) centred around donations . However , businesses and charities alike are realising the greater value of longer-term strategic partnerships .
Muckle LLP , the region ’ s leading commercial law firm , is one of those businesses . The firm has been developing its environmental , social and governance ( ESG ) strategy for decades .
In 2023 , it became the first law firm in the North-East and Cumbria to receive B Corp Certification , an accreditation given to organisations that meet high social and environmental performance standards , transparency and accountability , balanced with profitability .
Here , Hugh Welch , who heads up Muckle ’ s ESG strategy , discusses how working closely in partnership with local charities has benefited the firm , its people and its partners .
Mutually beneficial partnerships By definition , a partnership is mutually beneficial . The real value of partnerships between businesses and charities goes beyond a one-off fundraising initiative ; it ’ s shifting from a “ we ’ re here to help you ” mindset to one that recognises the potential of the charity sector to offer value back to the business .
For example , many of our people act as trustees and governors , and we actively encourage this as a firm . Many of our younger lawyers are taking up trusteeships , and it is a fantastic opportunity for them to not only use their legal skills to help a charity but also develop useful board-related skills to support their own professional development in strategy , governance , leadership and business management .
Volunteering is another area that has traditionally been seen as “ one-sided ”, with only the charities seeing any value . However , research has shown that people who carry out regular volunteering experience higher levels of mental wellbeing than those who never volunteered .
Improved mental health in the workplace has been shown to improve productivity , performance ,
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