Staffordshire University has joined businesses from across the UK in an initiative to help Britain and its most vulnerable citizens to pull through the coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic.
The C-19 Business Pledge was launched by former cabinet minister, Rt Hon Justine Greening. The national scheme encourages businesses to join the coronavirus effort by pledging to help their employees, customers and communities across Britain get through the crisis.
It is targeting not just the immediate difficulties caused by coronavirus, but also the challenges of recovery. It comes after Ms Greening received a huge response from businesses getting in touch with her and willing to be part of a national effort. The initiative has already received the backing of employers and higher education institutions representing more than 250,000 staff and students.
By signing up to the C-19 Business Pledge, Staffordshire University has given its backing to three main objectives built around employees, students and communities:
- Firstly, the University is committed to supporting its own employees throughout and beyond this challenging time. For example, this may include practical support and advice on financial security, mental health and personal wellbeing, as well as reintegration back into work for those who experience extended periods away from the workplace
- Secondly, the University is committed to publishing clear and simple advice for its students. Where possible, it will put in place specialist teams dedicated to supporting students if they are experiencing problems related to COVID-19 or the associated challenges it poses
- Thirdly, the University doing what it can to help its local communities throughout the epidemic. Over the coming months, society is likely to see a sharp increase in isolation, loneliness, mental health and household financial issues. There will therefore be an increased need for communities to come together, and Staffordshire University will continue to extend its practical support and expertise wherever possible.
Professor Liz Barnes CBE, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Staffordshire University, said: “These are unprecedented times for communities across the country and around the world. Our Civic University is fully committed to doing everything in its power to support people through the challenges posed by the coronavirus outbreak, which is why initiatives like this are so important.
“We will continue to take all necessary measures to safeguard the interests of our employees, students and local communities throughout this crisis, and we look forward to collaborating with other organisations that have signed up to the C-19 Business Pledge to offer help and advice to those whose lives have been impacted by the pandemic.”
In addition to Staffordshire University, organisations signed up to the pledge includes BP, Everton Football Club, National Grid, DLA Piper, Severn Trent Water, global recruitment firm Emerald Group, software provider Advanced, investment company True Potential, tech giant Konica Minolta, Yorkshire-based Sewell Group and law firm Shoosmiths.
Commenting on the C-19 Business Pledge, Justine Greening said: “With the future of many employers hanging in the balance and incredibly tough times unfolding in sectors across the UK, businesses face many incredibly difficult decisions.
“But those companies who are able to, can have a huge role in battling the impact of coronavirus and make a real difference in these uniquely challenging times.
“In spite of everything, lots of businesses have already shown amazing initiative and commitment to helping people affected by coronavirus. The C-19 Business Pledge is all about encouraging as many businesses as possible to get involved and then helping them do that faster and better by sharing all the great work that’s already been done. The early response has been incredible and I’ll do everything I can to help to connect up British business to play its role.”
For more on the C-19 Business Pledge visit www.c19businesspledge.org.