As we approach the end of the year, Rakem Group, a global distributor of specialty chemicals, takes great pride in reflecting on the team’s charity initiative in 2023. Everyone at Rakem has taken part and we have made a significant impact on various local communities, embodying our commitment to corporate social responsibility. We have again, donated nearly £100,000 in funding, equipment, and volunteer work. We will continue to do this in 2024.

Our approach to charity is to be as diverse as possible, addressing a wide range of challenges faced by individuals and our local communities. The team nominates charitable causes close to their heart and that is important to them. We have had many presentations from these deserving causes throughout the year at our monthly lunch. We support initiatives in healthcare, education, arts, culture, and more, with the aim to foster unity and collective well-being among the communities we serve.

One of our main partners is Bury Hospice, where we not only provide financial support but also donate equipment. Recognizing the importance of creating uplifting environments, the company went a step further by supplying materials for local students to paint a vibrant mural within the hospice premises, fostering a positive atmosphere for patients and their families. It is our intention to continue to support this fantastic facility which provides a vital service to our community.

To support children facing life-limiting conditions, Rakem Group donated £3000 to Derian House Children’s Hospice. This heartfelt contribution reflects our dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most. We also continue to support the Barrie Wells Trust which provides once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to attend events at sports and entertainment venues in corporate boxes where they feel special.

In memory of our cherished contractor, Joe Mitchell, we purchased a memorial bench at Edenfield Cricket Club. This heartfelt gesture serves as a tribute to Joe and provides a lasting space for reflection within our community.

Recognizing the invaluable service of retired service animals, Rakem Group extended its support to The National Foundation for Retired Service Animals. Our donation aids in ensuring the well-being of these dedicated animals after their years of service.

Furthermore, Rakem Group organized and donated to art and crafts workshops for a local homeless charity, Red Door. These initiatives aimed to provide therapeutic and creative outlets for those facing challenging circumstances.

We proudly sponsored Burrs Live, a local small music festival, demonstrating our commitment to the cultural vibrancy of our community. This support not only fosters artistic expression but also strengthens the local cultural landscape. Rakem Group have become The Met’s first-ever Platinum Sponsor, showcasing our dedication to supporting the arts and cultural institutions within our community.

This series of charitable initiatives have not gone unnoticed, as we have recently been honoured with the prestigious Manchester Chamber of Commerce Charity Initiative of The Year Award. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities.

We have also extended our support throughout the year to other charities and organizations such as:

•              Age UK

•              Dementia UK

•              Breaking Barriers Bolton

•              Brinsworth Manor Junior School

•              Bury Cancer Support Centre

•              UK-MED

•              The Christie NHS Foundation Trust

•              SafeNet Domestic Abuse Services

•              Dr Kershaw’s Hospice.

•              Macmillan Cancer Support

•              Young Carers through Barnardo’s

•              Stronger Together

•              Young Lives Vs Cancer

•              New Beginnings Rescue For Romanian Dogs And Cats.

•              Early Break

•              The Glitter Ball in Association with World Prematurity Day

Looking ahead, Rakem Group is filled with enthusiasm as we continue our initiative in 2024 and beyond. Our charity work reflects our values and it is the commitment and dedication of our team that makes this possible.

at home.

This week we heard some bad news from a local charity we regularly support, Bury Hospice. Unfortunately, Bury Hospice have been robbed, and four sets of outdoor furniture, which patients can use to relax in their Japanese garden, have been stolen.

Chief Executive Helen Lockwood has said “on behalf of our staff patients and community who contribute tirelessly to the running of this hospice, I am devastated that some people find it acceptable to take these away from our patients and their families at the most difficult of times.”

Thankfully, the community have managed to replace the garden furniture, and we have also decided to donate £1,000 to buy a mattress for the Hospice.

We’d like to invite all other local companies in our district to help them get to the 7 other mattresses to reach their goal! To help, contact Nina at ninacamplin@buryhospice.org.uk!

The well-being of our team members, customers, and partners is non-negotiable. We believe that a safe environment fosters not only productivity but also a culture of care and respect. 

From stringent safety protocols to continuous training and open communication, we ensure that everyone steps into a workspace where their health is safeguarded and their peace of mind is assured. When you know you’re safe, you can focus on doing your best work and pursuing your work with confidence.

Another month, another opportunity to make a positive impact through our Charity Lunch initiative! This September, we are excited to support not two, but three incredible causes that are close to our hearts. This month, we went with the theme “Care for Carers” as an opportunity to come together as a community and extend our support to those who devote their lives to caring for others.

Stronger Together
We were proud to donate to Stronger Together. Stronger Together is a new, small, local, registered charity, established with the purpose of helping those who are socially isolated or at risk of becoming so. This could be anyone and includes carers, people living with dementia, people living through a major life event or people in ill health, physical or mental. Founded and run by 2 experienced carers, and supported by wonderful volunteers, they are entirely a voluntary organisation, making no profit at all.

Supporting Young Carers through Barnardo’s
We also took this opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of young carers through our contribution to Barnardo’s Young Carers program. The selfless dedication of young carers deserves recognition and support, and we are delighted to play a part in this.

Walking Milestones for a Worthy Cause
Michelle Taylor has embarked on a remarkable journey this month. She has pledged to walk a mile a day in support of Dementia UK. Michelle’s dedication to this cause is truly inspiring, and we are wholeheartedly supporting her in her mission to raise awareness and funds for Dementia UK. Every step she takes is a step closer to making a difference in the lives of those affected by dementia, and we were proud to present a donation to help her on her journey.

We believe in the power of kindness, community, and creativity. Today, we are thrilled to share our recent initiative in support of our local homeless charity, Red Door Caritas.
Red Door is more than just a charity; they provide not only the essentials like food and shelter but also a warm and supportive environment that helps individuals get back on their feet. We understand that art has the incredible power to heal, inspire, and connect. That’s why we’ve donated a generous supply of arts and crafts materials to Red Door. By providing visitors with the means to express themselves creatively, we can contribute to their well-being and sense of self-worth.

Our commitment to our local community extends beyond the workplace. We are proud to stand with organisations like Red Door, who work to provide and a sense of belonging to those in need.

Every October, the World Health Organisation recognizes World Mental Health Day, shedding light on a cause close to our hearts.

This year’s theme, ‘Mental health is a universal human right,’ set by the World Federation for Mental Health, resonates deeply with our commitment to mental well-being. For over 70 years, World Health Organisation has been working tirelessly to ensure that mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health. Mental health issues impact lives, families, workplaces, and communities, affecting everyone.

We firmly believe that we must collectively work to prevent mental ill-health, championing mental well-being as individuals and as a society. The Rakem Group are proud to have a team of qualified mental health first aiders, dedicated to providing support and care to our valued team members. We strive to create a nurturing environment where conversations about mental health are encouraged, and seeking help is embraced.

World Mental Health Day serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of mental well-being. Let’s take this opportunity to prioritize our mental health, look out for one another, and foster a culture of open dialogue and support. 

This month Caitlin Clare Rafferty Rafferty ran the Manchester Half Marathon! She raised over £3000 for Macmillan Cancer Support, The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, and Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust.

She was also interviewed as one of 5 Amazing People who Ran the Manchester Half Marathon.
We want to say a big congratulations to Cait for not only raising the money but also smashing the marathon! Congratulations Caitlin!

Caitlin Said: “It’s been a difficult summer and I was unsure if I’d make it to the start line. I can’t thank my friends and family enough for everything they’ve done for me, I wouldn’t have been able to run today without them.”

To help her to keep raising money, click here.
Read Caitlin’s full interview here!

Another fantastic month for our Rakem Group charity lunch! This month we are happy to support three separate charities, nominated by our Charity Committee!

Our first charity is New Beginnings Rescue For Romanian Dogs And Cats. They are a non-profit organisation that rescues dogs and cats from shelters in Romania, bringing them to the UK for rehoming. We were lucky enough to meet two of their pups Betty and Flory at the Charity Lunch!
To read more about New Beginnings, you can visit their Facebook page here!

Our second charity is Early Break, a charity offering information, support, and treatment for children and young people using drugs and alcohol. Early Break also offers holistic therapies, emotional health & well-being groups, mindfulness sessions, specialist bereavement & loss counselling, a ‘Fresh Start’ anti-bullying project and much more. They work on a ‘person-centred’ mindset, which means young people and families are at the centre of everything they do. Every young person sets their own goals and targets, and Early Break are there for them to support and help them reach their goals! To find out more about Early Break and what they offer, please visit their website here!

The final charity we’re donating to in October is The Glitter Ball in Association with World Prematurity Day. The money raised at the Glitter Ball is being split between three charities.

Firstly, “Bolton NICU”, where the money raised, this year will go to support additional breastfeeding chairs and all other elements that can allow parents to have a more hands-on approach.

The second one is, “The Ronald McDonald House Manchester”, which provides a vital service for families with children receiving treatment at the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital and St Mary’s Neonatal Unit. These units specialise in providing care and treatment for infants and children, and the accommodation offered by Ronald McDonald House is a crucial aspect of this care.

The third charity is “Sands”, a Manchester-based charity that supports parents dealing with the bereavement of a baby or infant. It offers emotional and practical support to families affected by the death of a baby, information and support to healthcare professionals, and funds research to improve bereavement care and reduce the loss of babies’ lives.

You can read more about The Glitter Ball in Association with World Prematurity Day here!

We recently had the absolute pleasure of hosting a true rugby legend, none other than Paul Sculthorpe!

It’s no secret that our late founder, Frank Rafferty, was a dedicated fan of the St. Helens team for as long as we could remember. Paul’s visit meant the world to all of us at The Rakem Group.

It’s moments like these that reminded us of the incredible connections and experiences that sport can bring!

At the Rakem Group we’re not just a business, we’re a family. One of our core values, ‘Family’ runs deep, shaping our culture and guiding our every interaction.

From our dedicated team members who support one another like family, to our customers who are part of our extended family, we believe in creating a warm and inclusive environment where everyone feels at home.