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Supporting people in the communities we serve lies at the core of being mutual. Vernon Building Society has a strong tradition of supporting local causes, from local foster carers, hospices and mountain rescue to amateur boxing clubs, food banks and community cafes and we know this is an aspect of being a Mutual that our Members really value. It’s one of the many ways we’re committed to making our local community better. 

Our purpose is ‘caring about what really matters, we help our Members build a better future and together, we’re greater’. The Vernon has five pillars which help support the local community: the new Vernon Charitable Foundation gives grants up to £5,000 for registered charities; Community Stars for smaller grants of up to £650 to grassroot organisations and social enterprises; staff volunteering days; sponsoring community events and investment in financial education delivered with . 

We believe that volunteering is a fantastic way to make a positive impact and enables us to foster strong relationships within our communities. However, volunteering isn’t just about giving back, it’s also a great opportunity for personal development. It enables us to: 

✔ Build new skills and experiences 

✔ Strengthens teamwork and leadership abilities 

✔ Connects us with local communities to have a tangible impact 

As part of our Community Volunteering Programme, the Vernon Team is given two paid days a year to help. In 2024, this equated to 563 hours, which helped 17 organisations across Greater Manchester and Cheshire. This included planting 1000 trees with the RSPB at Dove Stone, tidying up at Marple Garden House and helping refurbish Jump Space, a specialist recreation centre providing trampoline rebound therapy to disabled people. 

The impact on our team can be incredibly positive, with our colleagues telling us they gained valuable experience through volunteering. Engaging in volunteering activities helps colleague engagement and enhances job satisfaction. Collaborating on community projects strengthens our relationships and makes our workplace a more vibrant environment. 

I used a volunteering day to help at in Greater Manchester; a fabulous organisation helping women back into work. They give women the confidence and practical tools they require to succeed in securing a job to start a new chapter in their life. 

The Smartworks process includes a 60-minute dressing appointment. So, I used a day to help sort their clothing selections, iron and organise their jewellery and accessories station. It was wonderful to hear first-hand the inspiring stories of success and see how transformative their help and coaching is to women.  

Volunteering always humbles me but at the same time makes me proud that I can help, even in a small way. I’m lucky to work for mutual Society that holds the community at the heart of everything it does and that supports us in giving back. 

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