The British Chamber of Commerce is encouraging businesses to give more time to local communities as a way of improving staff morale and public perception.

The announcement comes ahead of the launch of new research in July from CSV Make a Difference Day into the benefits of employee volunteering. CSV’s Make a Difference Day, sponsored by Barclays, is the UK’s largest single day of ‘hands-on’ volunteering, and provides an opportunity for companies to test the waters and see the benefits of employee volunteering for themselves.

Research from Barclays shows that 61% of managers say their that staff’s communication skills have improved, and 51% feel leadership has benefited. Further research shows that 70% of staff say their perception of their company has also improved following the implementation of employee volunteering programmes. (2)

“CSV Make a Difference Day is a great opportunity for businesses to improve public perception and develop staff skills,” said David Frost, Director-General of the British Chambers of Commerce. “If employers are able to encourage their staff to get involved and give something back to their communities, they are sure to see rewards in improved staff morale and in a range of skills from leadership to communication.”

CSV Make a Difference Day takes place on Saturday 29th October 2005, and aims to encourage 100,000 people to take part, including 150 companies. Last year’s employee volunteering activities included: a group of marketing executives at Barclays providing advice to a local Help the Aged shop on how to improve their merchandising and increase profits; EDS Credit Services and Abbey making over three gardens at the Brain Injury Rehabilitation centre; and volunteers from BAA Gatwick transforming the outside area of a new Sure Start centre.

So far the line up of companies taking part in CSV Make a Difference Day 2005 includes, Cadburys, AWG (Anglian Water), Barclays, Reuters and Unum Provident.