Partner Article

Exciting corporate charity challenge back for 2015

The Leeds Mencap Apprentice challenge is back for a second year as the charity looks to the corporate world to battle against each other to prove who is the best! The challenges proved last year that it ignites a bit of friendly rivalry amongst local businesses and fulfils corporate social responsibility aims. Following on from last year’s success where eight companies, small and large, came together and raised thousands of pounds for people with learning disabilities, Leeds Mencap is hoping that this year’s competition will be bigger, better and more!

Leeds Mencap is delighted to have a new partnership with aql, the telecommunications giant. aql come on board and are looking forward to seeing what the corporate world can bring to the competition in aid of learning disabilities. Dr Adam Beaumont, CEO and founder of aql said; “We at aql are very happy to have partnered up with Leeds Mencap on the Apprentice challenge to raise awareness and funds for learning disabilities by engaging with business in Leeds.”

Cath Lee, CEO of Leeds Mencap said; “I am incredibly proud and happy that we are able to return for a second year to present this exciting opportunity to the corporate world. The Apprentice proved last year that it is a thoroughly enjoyable and fresh way for businesses in Leeds to meet their objectives as well as do some great work in aid of a worthwhile cause. We are also very excited to be teaming up with aql this year and welcome them on board!”

This year’s challenge kicks off with a bang with two of last year’s teams confirming to re-enter for a second year. Northern Gas Networks and Easypay Services are both aiming to win the title after narrowly missing out at last year’s crown. The challenge not only allowed staff to take part in fundraising but also massively supported both companies to bring them closer together by working in partnership. Laura Whitston, Marketing and Social Media Executive at Easypay Services said; “Easypay Services are delighted to be involved with such a worthwhile cause, helping Leeds Mencap make a difference to those with learning difficulties in Leeds and the surrounding areas.”

Jenna Hoadley from Northern Gas Networks said; “It was an absolute blast, I learned so much about the work that Leeds Mencap do within our community and the time spent with the team was full of laughter and fun”.

Leeds Mencap is extending an open invite to businesses both small and large to take part in the competition to be named Leeds Mencap Apprentice 2015! To find out how you and your company can get involved, email Fahad or Cath on fahad.khan@leedsmencap.org.uk/catherine.storey@leedsmencap.org.uk or call 0113 2351331.

*********************************************************************************************** About Leeds Mencap: Leeds Mencap is a local and independent charity that provides support for children and adults with a learning disability, along with their families and carers. It has been running since 1953.

The charity supports more than 300 families throughout Leeds every week. Although Leeds Mencap is affiliated with National Mencap, the charity is an independently-run charity and has to secure all its own funding.

Leeds Mencap aims to provide support, advice and practical help to the whole family, long term and do this through a variety of services, including Youth Clubs, Me2 – an inclusive dance project for young people, School Holiday Play Schemes, a Parent/Carer Support Project with various support groups, Sibling Support, the Rookery residential home and the Hawthorn Family Support Centre for families with very young children with a learning disability and much more.

About Learning Disabilities:

A learning disability is caused by the way the brain develops but the causes can vary. Most develop before a baby is born, during birth or because of a serious illness in early childhood. However, sometimes the cause of learning disabilities can’t be found. People who have learning disabilities may find it harder to learn new skills, understand information or to interact with other people. A learning disability is ever-present and usually has a significant impact on a person’s life.

Leeds Mencap recognises that there are many types of learning disabilities. A learning disability can be mild, moderate or severe and some people with a learning disability may also have other physical and emotional conditions. Take a look at an extensive list of types of learning disabilities.

There are an estimated 15,000 people in Leeds with learning disabilities.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Catherine Storey .