In the bustling landscape of local businesses, there’s a growing recognition of the profound impact that corporate social responsibility can have on communities. Michael Jones Jeweller stand as a prime example – an inspiring force for philanthropy in Northampton and Banbury.
But their story isn’t just about the company’s own generosity; it’s a testament to what’s possible when businesses prioritise giving back. What sets Michael Jones Jeweller apart is their co-operative structure – a model based on shared ownership and collective decision-making. At the heart of Michael Jones Jeweller’s ethos lies Michael Jones Jeweller Community Fund. Each year, they allocate a portion of their remuneration costs – £35,000 in recent years – to this fund. This financial commitment serves as the backbone of their charitable endeavours, enabling them to make meaningful contributions to local causes and organisations. This ethos of shared responsibility extends beyond financial contributions to active participation in community projects and partnerships. It’s a reminder that every business, regardless of size or industry, has the power to make a difference.
One way Michael Jones Jeweller encourage community involvement is through employee volunteering. Staff members are given a volunteering day – a day for which the company pays them to support a charity or local cause of their choice. This initiative not only benefits the community but also fosters a culture of giving within the company.
Thomas Sinclair, the charity co-ordinator at Michael Jones Jeweller and manager of their Grosvenor Centre Showroom, has the fulfilling role of allocating donations and gifts in response to all the charity requests received every year.
Thomas said:
“We like to use a large portion of the money on a bigger local project that can really make a difference. In the past, there have been projects such as building a new garden at Northampton General Hospital and supporting the food bank set up by Northampton Cathedral by providing a two-year grant to help them to continue the brilliant work that they do to feed those in need in the community.
“We are currently giving an annual donation of £5,000 to The Lowdown, a mental health charity catering to young people between the ages of 11 and 25. With the increase in demand for these services since lockdown, The Lowdown provides vital support to vulnerable individuals and our donation aids it in its efforts to expand its youth programmes and initiatives. The remainder of the fund is used to help support other local charities and causes, whether it is the donation of a prize for a fundraising event, a monetary donation or sponsorship, or the purchase of necessary resources. We are fortunate to be able to support on average 50 to 55 local causes every year in the Northampton and Banbury areas.”
Michael Jones Jeweller’s long-running relationship with Workbridge – an organisation supporting individuals with mental illness and learning disabilities – is just one example of their impactful collaborations. Through their sponsorship, in 2021 Workbridge opened a shop and studio to enable them to sell bespoke gifts made by their service users and provide a retail experience for adults at Workbridge. By providing crucial assistance, they empower individuals to thrive and contribute to society. A reminder that even small gestures can create lasting change.
Michael Jones Jeweller partner with the Nene Valley Rotary Club in their annual Rokart event, contributing to fundraising efforts for a range of community projects. Their sponsorship has facilitated the raising of significant funds, including £8,500 allocated to support the refurbishment of Eve, a women’s refuge dedicated to assisting survivors of domestic violence. The refurbishment project at Eve demonstrates the tangible difference businesses can make in the lives of those facing adversity. By supporting initiatives that provide safety and support, Michael Jones Jeweller show that community welfare should be a priority for all.
Other causes supported by the Michael Jones Jeweller Community Fund include the Lewis Foundation in sponsorship of their annual Fun Run, prize donation for charity golf days with Northampton Golf Club, a grant for Banbury-based charity Dementia Active to help pay for vital construction, and the donation of much-needed educational resources, including laptops and atlases, to local schools. Whether through financial donations, sponsorship of events, or active participation in initiatives, there’s no shortage of ways to make a positive impact
So, to other local businesses, the message from Michael Jones Jeweller is clear: you have the means to make a difference. Whether through financial contributions, employee volunteering programmes, or strategic partnerships, your business can be a force for good in your community. Take inspiration from Michael Jones Jeweller and join the movement towards a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
To find out more about Michael Jones Jeweller, call 01604 632548 or visit www.michaeljonesjeweller.co.uk
