Stewart London Managing director, Athona Healthcare & Athona Education

“We’re currently running a special promotion, giving donations towards projects at every school that uses our teachers this term. We also raise money for Macmillan nurses through a variety of staff events, such as monthly dress-down days; and our water is supplied by Aqua Aid, which raises money for Christian Aid. As the Athona Group becomes increasingly successful, we believe it’s more and more important to take our corporate social responsibility seriously. It’s important to all the staff here to work for a company that contributes to the wider community.”

Jeff Deacon Chief executive, The Emerald Group
“We strongly believe in CSR and the value it has to play. Our charity involvement is a priority for us and over the past year we have been supporting Abaana, a charity which helps provide homes, schools and medical facilities for children in Africa. Together with our company contributions, some of our staff also voluntarily donate from their salaries each month. Our donations support Abaana’s New Life Homes project, which aims to get orphaned children off the streets and provide a home environment. Our goal is to achieve as much ‘buy-in’ as possible, so we can continue to give something back for the foreseeable future.”

Mary Pratt Director, Cocoabean
“In collaboration with the charity Tree Appeal, Cocoabean is planting annual batches of trees to celebrate our temps and perm placements. Planted in underprivileged schools nationwide, the trees increase biodiversity and are valuable educational tools. Cocoabean’s brand beliefs and commitment to contributing are deep-set, so Trees for Schools is a great way to spread our roots across the UK. Next year we’ll be raising money and awareness for conflict resolution charity International Alert, with a sponsored parachute. Watch out — Beans will be jumping! Cocoabean is about making profit but also contributing something back.”