The Softcat News Team
Softcat is showing its commitment to supporting the local community through the introduction of the use of the onHand app as part of its ‘Love2Volunteer’ programme. The programme is centred around encouraging its staff to get involved with helping those most in need.
During lockdown, Softcat looked for ways to continue their much-needed community and charity work, and as a result partnered with onHand in December 2020. OnHand provides an app to connect volunteers with those needing support in the community. They offer local, micro-volunteering opportunities close to colleagues’ home or work locations as well as remote options that help to combat loneliness – ideal for the switch to remote working and the limitations associated with it. With a shared vision that no one should feel alone or struggle with basic tasks, onHand has helped Softcat to continue the vital work of reaching the vulnerable and needy.
Over the last few months Softcat team members have collected medication from pharmacies, picked up groceries, walked dogs and even helped with gardening for shielding and vulnerable people. This help has also included offering technical support with devices so people can stay connected with their loved ones. Softcat colleagues have also picked up the phone to offer befriending calls, sometimes providing the only social contact a person may have during lockdown. These calls make a huge difference to those living alone. One lady expressed the value she found in these calls saying, “You don’t really have the opportunity to laugh out loud when you are living on your own.”
Softcat colleagues are dedicated to continuing this work, offering vital support to members of their local communities. Graeme Watt, Softcat’s CEO said, “Volunteering is a chance to donate time and emotional support and it provides an opportunity to help others which in turn has a positive impact on your own well-being. It also helps me put my own challenges firmly into perspective.”
Leading integrated cloud communications platform provider 8x8, is sponsoring Softcat’s volunteering activities, holding a similar commitment and passion to keep the world connected. Recognising the importance of having a positive and meaningful impact on society and the environment, Jamie Snaddon, Managing Director, EMEA at 8x8 said “With closely aligned values and beliefs with the Softcat team, we are proud to be the sole sponsor of their ‘Love2Volunteer’ programme. We understand the current global crisis is drawing heavily on charities across the UK, so we are committed to supporting them and the wider community, especially when they need it most. It’s heart-warming to see so many employees keen to participate in the programme, from supporting the vulnerable and elderly, to local food banks and homeless shelters. We look forward to driving a positive change this year and making a difference, together.”
In partnership with 8x8 and OnHand
