The VINCI UK Foundation, which is funded by VINCI businesses across the UK, has announced grants totalling £175,178 awarded to 39 charities focusing on improving access to training, employment, housing, healthcare, mobility and leisure activities for society’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged.
The Foundation was launched in 2016 with the aim of supporting projects that promote social cohesion. In addition to the funds, each charity is sponsored by at least one employee from VINCI Construction UK, Freyssinet, VINCI Construction Grands Projets, Belfast International Airport, Bachy Soletanche, Eurovia, Nuvia and VINCI Energies UK & RoI, who then dedicate some of their time and skills to assist over a 12-month period.
Ruth Ottley, head coordinator of the VINCI UK Foundation said: “We are thrilled to be able to help more charities than ever before with both financial and practical assistance. These charities perform a vital role in our society, yet as small, local organisations they often don’t receive as many donations as they ideally need. So it is a pleasure and honour for us to make a tangible difference to the incredible work they do.”
Two charities nominated by Freyssinet employees were chosen by the selection committee to receive funding and practical support:
Royal Surrey Hospital Charity, sponsored by John Barry, Southern Sales Manager
The Royal Surrey Hospital Charity supports the hospital and patients across South West Surrey. The charity requested support for their Sensory Equipment Appeal for Children’s Accident and Emergency Department.
The sensory resources required, such as an LED sky ceiling, are proven to alleviate stress and anxiety for children and young adults with learning disabilities, autism and complex needs. Many children with such needs may frequently need to access hospital, and when this is unplanned (such as coming to the A&E Department) it can be significantly stressful both for them and their families. The availability of a calming and reassuring environment means their healthcare needs can be met without any additional distress.
The Royal Surrey County Hospital cared for and supported the family of the late Gary McKenzie, a much-loved Freyssinet employee following a short battle with cancer. John Barry, Gary’s colleague and friend, along with the Freyssinet team, are keen to honour Gary’s memory and will act as sponsor.
https://www.royalsurreycharity.org.uk/
The Albrighton Trust, sponsored by Jayne Burgess, Central Sales Co-ordinator
The Albrighton Trust is located on the Shropshire/Wolverhampton border and offers educational and recreational activities for people with physical disabilities, learning difficulties or ill health. The activities provided at the Trust are inspired by nature, and include horticulture and gardening therapy, angling, conservation and woodcraft.
The charity applied for support with its wood crafting project, with the aim of improving resources, activities and equipment available for disabled/poor mobility woodcrafters by purchasing a laser woodcutter.
https://www.albrightontrust.org.uk/
Visit https://vinci-uk-foundation.co.uk/ for more details.