RBS International has hosted its inaugural Winning Together Conference, uniting local charities to boost support for the sector, encourage collaboration, and share insight.
The event took place at the Radisson in Jersey, welcoming representatives from charities across the bank’s key jurisdictions – Jersey, Guernsey, Isle of Man, and Gibraltar. The team created a dynamic environment for shared learning, peer support, and cross-island networking.
Nearly 30 representatives from a wide variety of charities attended the event, including Jersey Child Care Trust, Salvation Army, Guernsey Community Foundation, and the Isle of Man Foodbank.
Attendees gained insights from RBS International and charity executives who discussed support available, from mentorship and access to funding, to facilitating relationships with local governments to influence policy.
Oliver Holbourn, RBS International CEO, said: “We recognise our responsibility as a bank to help build stronger, more resilient and more inclusive communities in the jurisdictions we serve. This commitment shapes our approach to how we donate, how we volunteer and how we open our spaces and share our skills.
“It was a pleasure to host so many passionate individuals dedicated to supporting vulnerable groups and we remain committed to working together to create a positive difference.”
The conference is a key component of the bank’s 2025 Community Involvement Strategy, launched earlier this year, aimed at uplifting vulnerable communities by partnering with local charities and foundations. RBS International has already donated over £500,000 to community causes this year and is on track to donate an additional £250,000 in the autumn.
Participants also learned about the bank’s charity mentoring programme, which pairs experienced colleagues with leaders in the third sector to provide guidance and support on strategic challenges. Mark, CEO of Jersey’s only sight impairment charity, EYECAN, shared his positive experience with the programme during the conference.
Mark Coxshall, CEO, EYECAN, said: “Working with RBS International has been a fantastic experience for us, providing constant support, nurturing ideas and sharing expertise we wouldn’t otherwise have had access to. The conference was a brilliant opportunity to come together and explore ways to collaborate with peers both locally and across the other small islands.”
Attendees expressed the significant benefits of meeting to forge connections, strengthen funding opportunities, and create a meaningful impact on their communities.
Penny Shurmer, CEO, Jersey Employment Trust, said: “The conference brought to life the collective challenges of the sector as well as an opportunity to discuss solutions and share best practices. I learned a lot about the support offered by RBS International and made invaluable new connections with like-minded people.”
Rebecca Macnair, Education Team Lead at Mind Matter and Isle Listen, Isle of Man, added: “I found it hugely beneficial to make relationships with similar organisations in different jurisdictions – sharing knowledge and experience that will help us in the future development and delivery of our service. I’m walking away with so many ideas to discuss with my team!”
