Astute’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility: Supporting communities and causes
At Astute, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is more than a box to tick; it’s a cornerstone of who we are as a business.
Astute’s values drive our mission to support the communities we serve, and over the years, we’ve proudly contributed to numerous charitable organisations that align with our ethos.
Whether through financial donations, volunteering, or taking on gruelling physical challenges, our team’s commitment to giving back exemplifies our core belief in making a positive impact beyond recruitment.
Aligning CSR with Astute’s values
Astute’s values guide every aspect of our work, from the way we partner with clients and candidates to how we engage with the world around us.
These values underpin Astute’s CSR strategy, ensuring our efforts are purposeful and impactful.
By supporting a wide range of charities, we aim to address key social challenges while fostering a sense of community within our organisation.
One of the highlights of our CSR programme is our annual Charity of the Year initiative.
Overseen by our Wellbeing Committee and selected through a company-wide vote, this process empowers every team member to play a part in choosing a cause close to their hearts.
This year, we are proud to support the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, a vital service that provides life-saving care to those in critical need.
Charities Astute has supported
Our commitment to CSR is reflected in the breadth of charities we’ve supported over the years.
Here are some of the incredible organisations we’ve partnered with:
- Home Start Portsmouth: Helping families with young children through difficult times, this charity’s work resonates deeply with our values of care and community.
- Final Straw Foundation: Dedicated to reducing plastic pollution, this environmental charity aligns with our vision for a sustainable future.
- Save the Children: By supporting global initiatives that improve the lives of children, we contribute to creating a brighter future for the next generation.
- Mind (Solent and HEH): Mental health is a priority for us at Astute, and our support for Mind helps provide essential resources for those struggling with mental health challenges.
- Fairways: Supporting young people and families, Fairways works tirelessly to provide opportunities and assistance to those who need it most.
- Family Action Group (PARCS): This organisation addresses sexual abuse and exploitation, providing critical support and raising awareness of these vital issues.
- Spark Community Group: Fostering local engagement and support networks, Spark strengthens communities and enhances well-being.
- Lifehouse Homeless Shelter: By supporting Lifehouse, we’ve helped provide essential services for individuals facing homelessness.
- Young Lives vs Cancer: This charity’s work with children and families affected by cancer reflects our commitment to compassion and support and we were delighted to raise more than £11,000 towards their valuable cause.
- Portsmouth Hospital Charity: Supporting healthcare initiatives in our local community, this charity enhances patient care and resources for families in need.
Making a difference through action
At Astute, we believe in putting our words into action.
Over the years, our team has taken on various fundraising and awareness-building activities to support these causes. Some of our recent efforts include:
- Completing the 100km Ultra Challenge, a testament to our team’s dedication and resilience.
- Climbing Mont Buet, pushing physical boundaries to raise funds and awareness.
- Participating in hikes, walks, the Great South Run and even skydives showcasing our team’s spirit and determination.
- Hosting bake sales and other creative fundraising initiatives, bringing the team together for a common purpose.
Each activity not only raises essential funds but also fosters a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among our colleagues.
By coming together to support these causes, we strengthen our internal bonds while making a meaningful difference in the wider world.
This year’s focus: Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance
The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance is this year’s chosen Charity of the Year, and we are thrilled to dedicate our efforts to this incredible organisation.
Providing emergency medical services across our region, the air ambulance plays a critical role in saving lives and supporting communities in times of crisis.
Our team has already undertaken a variety of events and raised more than £12,600 towards the charity’s incredible work.
Building a legacy of impact
As we reflect on the charities we’ve supported and the challenges we’ve undertaken, it’s clear that CSR is an integral part of Astute’s identity.
By aligning our efforts with our values and involving the entire team in the process, we’ve created a culture of care, collaboration, and purpose.
Our commitment to CSR doesn’t just benefit the organisations we support; it enriches our own workplace, fostering a sense of pride and unity that translates into everything we do.
As we look to the future, we remain steadfast in our mission to give back, make a difference, and inspire positive change.
To learn more about Astute’s values and how they shape our approach to CSR, visit Astute’s About us page.
About the author of the CSR at Astute blog
Sam Bradshaw is Astute’s Head of People and is passionate about our commitment to CSR initiatives.
