CommunityMark

CommunityMark is designed to get businesses involved in the local community and is awarded once this has been successfully achieved.

The scheme is run by Business in the Community and there is no fee attached. Each firm is provided with an advisor who will help you set up a community program and initiatives. The advisor will also give examples and case studies of how other businesses have gained their award, along with models to structure your project.

Community Action is defined for this award as:

• Sponsorship
• Cash or gift voucher donations
• Time giving or employee volunteering
• Mentoring
• Match funding

If you currently partake in any (or all!) of these activities they can be included in the award. You can still apply if you have not started any or these initiatives and all progress will be recognised.

Once you have achieved your aims you apply for the accreditation by answering questions about what you have done for the community and your business. The answers are then assessed and the award given accordingly.

The standard will last for up to three years and then re-assessed after this period.

Any business may apply for this award provided they have fewer than 250 employees and their turnover is less than £25million.

For more information please visit www.bitc.org.uk