Homelessness is always hard – not least at Christmas and certainly not least in the midst of a pandemic. In response to this crisis, Knightsbridge – one of the UK’s leading manufacturer of wiring devices, accessories and lighting – has donated a percentage of sales revenue from its weatherproof range to Signposts, a Dunstable and Luton charity dedicated to supporting the homeless in the company’s local area.
Signposts doesn’t simply provide accommodation to its clients: it offers a wider range of support that seeks to holistically address the causes and consequences of homelessness such as social isolation, mental ill health and substance/ alcohol abuse through a strengths-based approach which includes learning, sharing, developing and using skills.
The £12,000 donation stems from Knightsbridge’s social responsibility initiative Committed to a Brighter Future, which encompasses charity work, increased sustainability – such as a move to sustainable packaging that is both 100% recyclable and made from 100% recycled materials – and research into and investment in energy-efficient products.
The donation will be used as a starting point to set up ‘Knightsbridge bursaries’, a service that relieves the stress of electricity, gas, and food costs for people who have come into accommodation directly off the streets. Tim Archbold, Chief Executive of Signposts, said, “We are so grateful to Knightsbridge for their support. These bursaries will make a real difference to people’s lives and enable them to get back on their feet and back into society.”
Other Knightsbridge milestones realised under Committed to a Brighter Future so far include a 95% reduction in single use plastics, 98% of packaging being biodegradable; and contributions in both goods and volunteers that have helped feed over 1300 people at the company’s local food bank.
For donations to Signposts, please visit: justgiving.com/campaign/signpostsbursaryfund
