The Access Group has had a fantastic year of fundraising and has raised £1.55m for 9 different international charities. This is what modern corporate philanthropy can do over distance and what businesses can really do for people all around the world.
From caring for children with cancer in the UK to fighting digital poverty in 7 other countries, the software company’s fundraising covers several continents. This shows awareness of the big social issues around the world.
Young Lives vs Cancer: A Partnership That Transforms Lives
Young Lives vs Cancer was the main charity partner, with Access Group committing £1m to the partnership. This organization provides a lifeline to children and young people aged 0-25 with cancer and their families at some of the toughest times of their lives.
As a result of this partnership, Access made a big contribution. When combined with employee fundraising, corporate matching funds and grants from The Access Foundation, it totalled £1m. This is a big deal given over 4,000 children and young people are diagnosed with cancer every year.
Rachel Kirby-Rider, Chief Executive at Young Lives vs Cancer, said: “Every year over 4,000 children and young people in the UK are diagnosed with cancer. Young Lives vs Cancer rely on charitable donations to fund our work supporting children and young people with cancer and their families.”
The organisation relies on charitable donations so partnerships like this are crucial for them to continue their life-changing work with vulnerable young people and their families.
How Access Group Raised Funds
Access Group’s fundraising was innovative and employee led. The company hosted a range of events that challenged employees and raised money for good causes.
One of the most notable was 53 employees, including top leadership team members, doing a reverse bungee jump at the company’s Loughborough headquarters. This brave endeavour raised £55,000 through matched fundraising and showed leadership’s commitment to helping others.
On the same day 23 employees completed a 20km circular walk that started and finished at the company headquarters. This endurance challenge raised £38,000 for charity and encouraged teamwork and shared purpose.
Throughout the year Access Group hosted more and more ambitious fundraising events. Their charity balls in the UK and Romania were particularly successful raising £85,000 and 168,000 lei respectively. These formal events combined networking with charitable giving to create sustainable fundraising.
Physical challenges were another pillar of their strategy. Twenty-six staff cycled from London to Amsterdam, raising £87,000 on this international journey. And, a 130-kilometer journey around Loch Ness raised £84,000, indicating that adventure-based fundraising is popular with staff.
Supporting Charities Around the World
The Access Group’s charitable commitment went far beyond their UK business, to organisations in nine countries where they have a major personnel presence. This geographic spread means their charity initiatives have a lasting impact in communities connected to their employees.
In the US they supported the National Organisation of Rare Diseases (NORD). They address medical needs that are often missed by mainstream healthcare systems. Also, Ireland benefited from donations to The Alzheimer Society of Ireland, which helps families impacted by dementia.
Beyond Blue in Australia received funding for mental health programs. And Sir John Kirwan Foundation in New Zealand continued to advocate for mental health.
Romania’s United Way profited from local fundraising efforts, reflecting Access Group’s dedication to assisting the areas in which they operate.
Southeast Asian operations contributed to important causes in their respective regions. Malaysia’s SUKA Society received funding to protect vulnerable children. Likewise, Vietnam’s Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation continued its child protection efforts.
The Ceylon School for the Deaf and Blind in Sri Lanka has received funds to support its educational objective.
What Partners & Company Leaders Have to Say
Anderson Selvasegaram, CEO of Malaysia’s SUKA Society, expressed gratitude for Access Group’s support: “The funds raised will allow us to continue to deliver critical services, including case management, access to education, nutritious food, safe shelter and healthcare for unaccompanied and separated children.”
Caroline Fanning, Chief Employee Success Officer at The Access Group, reflected on the year’s achievements: “Every year, our people find new and extraordinary ways to give back. I am truly proud of the creativity, passion and unity shown across Access worldwide.”
Her comments demonstrate how philanthropic giving has become a fundamental part of company culture, rather than an afterthought. The £1.55 million raised reflects more than just financial achievement. It emphasises how corporate principles can motivate meaningful action across different teams and geographical regions.
The company’s approach reflects their mission statement, “Love Work. Love Life. Be You.” This mindset fosters an environment where philanthropic giving feels natural and enjoyable. This results in consistent participation and exceptional outcomes.
Access Group’s Approach to Charity
The Access Group’s charitable success comes from a systematic approach to donating. By combining staff fundraising with corporate matching funds and foundation grants, they provide several revenue streams that support individual contributions.
Their events range from simple team activities to strenuous physical activities, allowing employees with diverse interests and skills to engage effectively. This inclusive strategy encourages greater engagement while strengthening team relationships.
The geographical spread of their nonprofit collaborations reflects careful analysis of where they can have the greatest impact. By supporting organisations in the countries where they operate, they ensure that their contributions benefit the communities in which they work.
