A host of organisations based in and around Liverpool have supported homeless veterans charity, Launchpad by donating 50 tote bags filled with essential items that will help the veterans who arrive at Speke House to give them the best possible start on their journey to independent living.
The event, held at the iconic Cotton Exchange building in Liverpool’s business district in September, was organised by global engineering company Atkins Realis and brought together businesses, charitable organisations, and community leaders to explore how collaboration can drive meaningful social outcomes.
The event featured participation from a diverse range of organisations, including Morgan Sindall Construction, Liverpool City Region, the Whitechapel Centre, and Regeneration Brainery, along with STEM school governors. Local cooperative, Homebaked Bakery, also attended and generously provided their signature scouse pies, sausage rolls, and cakes for the occasion.
Throughout the afternoon, attendees engaged in workshops and activities centred around the theme of Social Value – examining how organisations can support each other to better serve vulnerable populations. Launchpad’s Deputy Manager, Nicola Higham, had the opportunity to present to the group, showcasing the work Launchpad does to support homeless veterans. She discussed how individuals and businesses can get involved by offering donations, volunteering, or providing employment opportunities for Launchpad’s residents.
A key highlight of the event was a ‘speed networking’ session, where attendees were able to interact with students from Regeneration Brainery, exchanging stories and advice. This created a valuable platform for fostering connections between business leaders and young people looking to build careers in socially responsible sectors.
Homebaked Bakery also shared their inspirational journey, detailing how their cooperative bakery has been providing jobs, affordable produce, and community training since 2012, serving as a beacon of hope in the Anfield area.
The afternoon culminated in an interactive workshop where attendees packed tote bags filled with essential items to be donated to Launchpad and the Whitechapel Centre.
Whitechapel received ‘Kettle Packs,’ which contained dried and tinned foods for homeless individuals staying in hotels or B&Bs with limited facilities. Launchpad was delighted to receive 50 bags filled with toiletries and essential items to be given to new residents upon their arrival.
Since the event, these welcome packs have made a significant impact at Launchpad’s Speke House, where new veterans receive these essential items upon arrival, helping them settle into their new homes more comfortably. For veterans who have faced homelessness, having access to basic toiletries and necessities can make a world of difference.
Nicola Higham, Deputy Manager of Launchpad’s Speke House said;
“We are very grateful to Atkin Realis for inviting us to this event. It has highlighted the power of collaboration between businesses and charitable organisations to deliver tangible, life-changing outcomes. We are immensely grateful for the support and look forward to future opportunities to engage with partners to continue making a positive impact in our community.”
