After a weekend of binge shopping, it is heartwarming to see so many people giving to charities, says Lianne Lodge

After the rush to spend, spend, spend, this latest name day – on November 29 – encouraged us all to give something back. To do something good.

It is easier than you think and incredibly rewarding.

In addition to providing financial support to our chosen charities, as a firm we consciously chose to focus on volunteering opportunities where staff can work hand-in-hand with those charities.

Gillespie Macandrew offers all employees one paid “charity day” a year which they can use for volunteering and those who have taken up this opportunity have gained greatly from the experience.

Since this initiative was introduced, staff have been actively involved in choosing the charities we support and the numbers signing up to help are growing all the time.

One of our chosen charities is The Rossie Young People’s Trust, a remarkable residential centre that provides a safe and supportive environment for young people to develop life skills.

The people at Rossie are always buzzing with ideas and it is hard not be gripped by their enthusiasm. Its focus on working constructively with the young people to help them develop the skills and ability to make good choices in life is also very humbling and the impact quite amazing. They are always looking for support.

The Rock Trust is another and it helps young people who are 
homeless or at the risk of becoming homeless.

It helps by providing the right accommodation, support, education and employment opportunities that will lead to a better future. Many of the young people introduced to the Trust are offered accommodation in a Trust-owned flat and these are periodically redecorated, to provide a fresher look for new occupants. This is organised and carried out by volunteers.

Whether as an individual or as a company, and whether a bake sale, sponsored run or volunteering is your thing, the opportunities to link with charities are growing all the time. Small actions can make a big difference. And after a weekend of binge shopping, it is heartwarming to know that so many people willing to give up their time and make donations to a good cause.

Lianne Lodge is an Associate, Charities & Private Client, Gillespie Macandrew LLP