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Bankside businesses run CSR inquest event |
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January saw
the first ever community needs ‘inquest’ in the area, with a panel of
businesspeople meeting representatives of community and educational organisations
in the area.
The event
lasted two days (18th to 19th January), with the first
dedicated to primary age children and their families, and the second to young
people. On each day a ‘scene setting’ session was followed by a detailed
discussion of needs, and the appropriate business response. Fifteen ‘witnesses’
were called in all.
Ahead of
the event, a smaller group of businesspeople met with:
-
The School
Council at Cathedral
School
-
Young
people at Mint Street Adventure Playground
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Over-50s at
Blackfriars’ Settlement
Some of the
outline conclusions were as follows:
- Better
Bankside needs to play its part in creating a ‘sustainable community’ in the
area. In particular it must offer ‘in kind’ support as well as grants, and also
plan for long-term relationships.
-
There is
considerable overlap between the interests of businesses and local people, who
collectively want a clean and safe environment; attractive open spaces;
affordable places to eat; more shops.
-
Relationships
between employees and residents will only be developed through practical
connections – these will build understanding, mutual respect and commitment.
Although
Better Bankside’s CSR theme group is still considering the outcomes of the
inquest, it is likely that some or all of the following will happen as a
result. Better Bankside will:
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Seek to
broker ‘in kind’ support from local employees, directed both towards children
and young people, and also towards community groups. At its simplest this might
mean participating in a reading scheme with a local primary school; at its most
sophisticated, acting as a trustee or governor.
-
Encourage
businesses to ‘open their doors’ to local people (particularly children and
young people) as part of a structured programme.
-
Endeavour
to play a significant part in capital projects, such as the regeneration of Mint Street
Park. This is likely to
be expressed in 1) in-kind professional support, 2) strategic/political
lobbying, 3) fundraising.
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Play its
part in ensuring that there are effective communications between residents,
businesses and community groups, using a variety of ‘channels’.
-
Assist with
the development of a strategic vision for community groups in the area.
The
finished report will be available in a month’s time and will be posted on this
website.
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Last Updated ( Monday, 10 September 2007 )
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