Charity
Charity support is an integral part of Orange's community
futures programme. This section looks at the ways in
which Orange are supporting worthwhile causes.
This year, Orange's national UK charity campaign focuses
on sensory disabilities. Many people with sensory disabilities
find it difficult to participate fully in society. Communication
is core to improving their lives. We believe our expertise
in this area can help to make a difference.Orange have
commissioned independent academic research relating
to the issue of sensory disability, which impairs one
or more of the five senses. This research has helped
us to identify areas where support is particularly needed
and to raise awareness of the issue itself. A downloadable
copy of the summary report on this research will be
available shortly.
In support of our UK charity campaign focus on sensory
disabilities, Orange have established a joint charity
partnership with the Royal
National Institute of the Blind (RNIB) and the
British Deaf Association (BDA). We will work company
wide to promote the work of these charities and encourage
our employees to get involved; for example, by taking
part in fundraising activities or volunteering their
time.
Two million people in the UK can't see us. Two and a
half million people can't hear us. We want to enable
those with sensory disabilities to participate more
fully in society. We will work to raise more funds and
greater awareness.
Orange's ongoing fundraising programme adds another
dimension to our relationships with the wider community.
Many of our staff play a personal role in making our
diverse corporate community involvement programme a
success.
Our employees have an impressive track record of supporting
Orange's charity partners. During a two-year charity
partnership with NCH - Action For Children between 2001
and April 2003, Orange employees raised a total of £400,000
in support of the charity. They also participate in
national fundraising events such as Comic Relief, along
with activities throughout the year to raise funds for
local causes.
Orange have joined a voluntary employee payroll giving
scheme, which allows our staff to make contributions
directly from their salary before tax is deducted. This
means their regular donations to charity are worth more.
Staff can choose to contribute to up to 12 different
registered charitable organisations.
To encourage staff to use payroll giving, the Government
will add an additional 10% to staff contributions until
April 2003.
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