North East accountancy launches community fund to “fight poverty and enrich lives”

Robson Laidler accountants and business advisors has launched its own community fund for charitable causes across the North East as the firm continues to balance its purpose with profits.

With offices in Newcastle and Chester-le-Street, the firm which celebrates 102 years in business this year continues to stand by its purpose to “make a positive difference to people’s lives” by donating 5 per cent of its profits each year to its own community fund.

The fund, in partnership with County Durham Community Foundation, is open to a network of community causes that “fight poverty and enrich lives”. The partnership will run for three years and long-term supporters of the Foundation have put forward match funding to support and welcome Robson Laidler’s new fund.

Robson Laidler’s managing director Graham Purvis said: “As a purpose-driven firm we strongly believe in putting our profits where our principles are. The newly-launched Fund is an evolution of our long tradition of giving to charity and demonstrates how we are still seeking to be progressive and innovative.

“We’re very excited about the new Robson Laidler Fund because we see this as a sustainable way of continually giving and we’re delighted to be working with County Durham Community Foundation, which is going to be a massive help to us in terms of ensuring the money goes to the places it can do the most good.”

The newly launched fund is a move in line with Robson Laidler becoming the first accredited B Corp in the North East, an international movement aimed at making businesses a “force for community good”.

Graham continued: “B Corp’s are a new kind of business that are no longer purely driven by shareholder primacy. The five pillars of B Corp are showing excellence and value in terms of company governance, people, customers, the environment and supporting the community.

Chief executive of County Durham Community Foundation Michelle Cooper, added: “It’s a real privilege to work with Robson Laidler to launch this partnership because they see how serious poverty is in our region and really want to help in a meaningful way.

“By working with us, Robson Laidler can be sure their money stays local, supports incredible projects, and is boosted by the match funding we have.”

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