Ten members of staff from AstraZeneca volunteered their time to build four raised flowerbeds at Launchpad’s Speke House. This also gave them an opportunity to learn more about the charity and the work Launchpad does for veterans.
Volunteering is an annual event for each AstraZeneca employee, with staff within the organisation enabled and empowered to give something back to local charities and causes by volunteering one full day of their time.
Launchpad’s Speke House is located near to AstraZeneca on Renaissance Way, Boulevard Industry Park in Speke and staff have attended sessions with their leadership team to raise awareness of the charity and how it supports veterans to help them stabilise their lives and make a successful transition from military to civilian life.
Launchpad provides accommodation and support, with the help of partner organisations, to veterans and over 300 veterans have been supported at Speke House since it opened in 2015.
After speaking to staff and residents living at Speke House, the request was made for raised flowerbeds to be built in the garden so that the residents can tend and maintain the area throughout the year.
In addition to their time, materials such as pallets, screws and compost were also donated by AstraZeneca. The volunteers met a few of the residents on the day to find out more about their military careers and the support they receive from Launchpad.
Sam Jackson, Manager of Speke House, said:
“Over the last year and due to restrictions with Covid, the garden area had been neglected and needed a good makeover. We were thrilled when staff from AstraZeneca said they wanted to help us by volunteering their time and to build the flowerbeds.
“It’s fantastic to receive support like this from local organisations and the staff and residents really do appreciate their time and effort. Some of residents are keen gardeners and are looking forward to maintaining this area for us. Gardening is also a therapeutic way for them to manage their mental health and wellbeing.”
Mark Proctor, Senior Director, Biologics Supply at AstraZeneca, said:
“We pride ourselves at AstraZeneca in doing the right thing and supporting our local community. Launchpad’s cause is so vital and has an immense impact on the lives of so many veterans, so we are honoured that we were able to help in any way we could. We hope that residents can now enjoy time spent in the garden, and look forward to seeing the garden thrive in the future.”
