19 July 2004
A team of ten Zurich employees have risen to a "challenge" set by Swindon Samaritans and, in true "Changing Rooms" style, have given their building a cosmetic makeover.
Samaritans provide free and confidential emotional support by telephone, face to face and e-mail 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. They asked Zurich to give their building a fresh new look and make it more welcoming for visitors and staff and were delighted when the team, named Luke 10:25-37 (a bible reference for the story of the Good Samaritan), came armed with cans of paint, paintbrushes and bags of enthusiasm.
This project was completed as part of Challenge 2004, Zurich's annual volunteering event, where teams of Zurich employees complete one-off projects in the community throughout the year. Many people happily give their time to become involved with Challenge which provides practical and immediate help to local community groups. This year approximately 200 challenges will be completed throughout the UK, with approximately 50 of those being carried out in Swindon.
Chris Gillies, Chairman of the ZFS Community Trust comments: "There is always a marvellous response from our people for Challenge and it is an eagerly anticipated annual event. Last year over 2000 people took part in over 200 challenges throughout the UK. Our employees benefit from team working and the community groups get a real boost from the work."
Richard Moss, Chairman of Swindon Samaritans, said "We are really grateful to the Zurich team. The work has greatly enhanced the front of the building which helps to give a good first impression and also makes us look more approachable. Also the fact that people are willing to give up their own time, and use their skills to support us makes a real difference to us"
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For further information please contact:
Kate Hodges
Communications Manager
Zurich’s Community Trust
Tel: 01793 503711
Mobile: 07708 269653
Notes to editors:
About Zurich’s Community Trust
Zurich considers social responsibility integral to successful business performance. The company’s current priorities are diversity in the workforce, community and environment.
Community remains high on its agenda. Zurich has a strong track record of supporting local communities with funding, time and expertise and has received recognition for its groundbreaking work from Business In the Community, Whitbread and the Insurance Times.
The Zurich Community Trust, a registered charity funded by pre-tax profits and donations from its people, provides an umbrella for all community involvement in the UK.
- Zurich Cares Trust Programmes create sustainable change through long-term funding and active involvement. Zurich works closely with innovative partners to significantly impact the lives of disadvantaged people in the UK and overseas. The Programmes tackle social exclusion, dementia and the most vulnerable older people’s issues.
- Zurich Cares manages Zurich employees' and financial advisers' £1 million donations, 20,000 hours of volunteering including more than 200 annual challenge activities.
Visit our website on www.zurich.org.uk for more details.
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