The government white paper that accompanied David Cameron’s “Big Society” speech on Monday highlighted the work of Islington Giving. As the prime minister declared his “commitment to building strong communities, strong relationships and strong families,” his officals focused on the efforts Islington is making to combat deprivation. The white paper described Islington Giving as a
“unique coalition of businesses, funders, local residents and community organizations… aiming to find new ways for Islington residents to give money and time to improve the lives of the poorest and most isolated residents.
“Islington Giving offers a new ‘front door’ to volunteer, and works with businesses in the City to use the skills of their staff imaginatively to support local groups. A campaign for Islington people by Islington people, it offers local people and businesses the opportunity to get involved in the community ‘in their own back yard’, secure in the knowledge that their talents and money will be used effectively.”
Kristina Glenn of Cripplegate Foundation, which backs Islington Giving, said, “I am delighted that people outside the borough are praising the excellent work of our donors and volunteers. I am particularly pleased that the government is rejecting the lazy stereotype that Islington is a home for the wealthy, and recognising that it faces some of the worst poverty in Britain.”
Visit the ‘How you can help’ section of our website to find out how you can give your time and give your money to support local people in Islington.
Notes to editors.
1. The government’s white paper can be found here http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/sites/default/files/resources/giving-white-paper.pdf
2. The comments on Islington Giving can be found on page 21
3. The Prime Minister’s speech can be found here
http://www.number10.gov.uk/news/latest-news/2011/05/building-a-bigger-stronger-society-2-64070
4. Since launching in September 2010, the Islington Giving campaign has set up a new grants programme of over £500,000 to invest in young people, tackle poverty and confront isolation. It has just raised its first £1 million from local residents and trusts. It has also awarded individual grants of £25,000 to social entrepreneurs looking to make a positive difference in Islington and developed new ways of volunteering in Islington with businesses such as BT, the Guardian/Observer and the Macquarie Group.
5. For further information contact Kristina Glenn on 0207 566 3138
6. Islington Giving is a coalition of the Cripplegate Foundation, Breadsticks Foundation, Richard Cloudesley’s Charity, the Morris Charitable Trust, UnLtd and Voluntary Action Islington.
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