More well known for its significant grant giving programme, Lloyds Bank Foundation for the Channel Islands also offers developmental support including mentoring to grant holders.
Zoe Collins-Fisher (shown to the left in the main picture) from Jersey Action Against Rape (JAAR), an independent and confidential service helping people to recover from the trauma of sexual violence, explains the impact of being part of the Foundation’s mentoring programme.
“We’re here to support the healing journey for people who have experienced sexual trauma. The impact cuts across individual’s lives so as well as supporting survivors, we are there for their families too. To meet demand and reduce waiting times to access support, we’re growing our provision of counselling services by 65%.
“When our application for a Foundation grant was successful last year, we were asked if we wanted to have a mentor to support our growth plans. From the outset it felt like our matched mentor, Lyam, is part of the team and communication with him has always been open.
“Lyam brings planning, commercial and digital skills to give us strategic and practical advice – and as a small charity being able to access this level of expertise has really helped us to develop our growth strategy.
“As a direct result of learning from Lyam how to use data to support other grant applications, we’ve been successful in securing more funding.
“As well as being able to share his personal experience of fundraising for small charities, Lyam really took the time to understand the sensitivities, education and challenges we face. It’s been my first experience of having a mentor. It has given me greater confidence and comfort to know that there is someone dedicated to help us to deliver for others.”
Lloyds Bank Foundation for the Channel Islands’ mentoring scheme was first piloted in 2017. Volunteer mentors from Lloyds Bank International are matched with grant holders. From advice on business planning to technology, resilience to communication, the bespoke programme is designed to share the corporate skills and experience of the volunteer bank mentors.
Lyam England (shown to the right in the picture) from Lloyds Bank International explains, “Being a volunteer mentor has given me the opportunity to share the skills I’ve developed working at the bank, draw on my previous fundraising experience and to give back to the community.
“As a result of the pandemic, charities had to adapt quickly, and many usual fundraising opportunities disappeared. By mentoring Zoe, I’ve been able to bring a fresh perspective to JAAR’s fundraising strategy to help the charity access new fundraising opportunities. This has ranged from advice on how to approach potential corporate sponsors, suggesting ways to rekindle pre-pandemic donating habits and sharing how the charity can make the make the most of digital tools.
“Due to the bank’s breadth of expertise, I’ve also been able to connect Zoe with colleagues who can support JAAR in other specialist areas. It is a rewarding experience and an opportunity to develop my own skills in a different sector.”
Click here for information about the services JAAR offers and how you can support the charity.
