Nick Lines

I would like to nominate my team, Business Analysis for Lloyds Banking Group who took part in an Apprentice style challenge on 18 May 2011 to raise funds for One25, a Bristol charity supporting women to escape from street prostitution, violence and addiction. Leading up to the event there was a lot of planning to do in terms of designing the challenges, fulfilling all the health and safety requirements, dividing colleagues into appropriate teams, arranging publicity, ordering t-shirts etc. This was carried out by myself and Tariq Pugh liaising with Louise Willott from One25..

As well as raising nearly £27k on the day, the charity benefited from an increase in it's profile both within our team and amongst the local community, especially the small businesses who were approached for auction items / ink recycling. We were able to give them information about the charity itself and the response from those approached was very positive.

We really wanted to make an impact on a local charity which doesn't automatically get a lot of support. Louise Willott from One25 presented to the team before the event on the background and aims of the charity and we were all inspired by the work they do to change people's lives.

The Director's challenge approach was inspirational - as well as raising funds and awareness for the charity it promoted team building and enabled our team to use their business skills.