Whitley Stimpson restore funds for local charity

Whitley Stimpson’s 28th annual Golf Day was held at Frilford Heath Golf Club in aid of the Oxfordshire charity that specialises in helping people to recover from mental ill-health.

Stuart Haigh, director at Whitley Stimpson who is also Treasurer and Trustee for Restore, explains: “We were especially delighted at the success of this year’s golfing event despite the difficult times that everyone is currently experiencing. We are very grateful to Frilford Health for making the socially distanced event enjoyable for all.

“The last few months have been incredibly challenging but, as a company, we have quickly adapted to the ‘new normal’ while supporting our clients through what has been a tough time for businesses. But for us, success is not just in supporting our clients with professional advice, it is about our contribution to a thriving local community, so we are delighted to raise money for Restore.

“We have been fund raising for this charity for a number of years but this year, with the coronavirus pandemic and the increased demand for mental health support, our continued help seems more fitting than ever.”

Claire Spence-Parsons, the Head of Fundraising and Communications for Restore, was presented with a cheque for £1,100 made up from money raised on the socially distanced event.

Restore is an Oxfordshire-based mental health charity that supports people in taking control of their recovery, developing skills, and leading meaningful lives.

Each year Restore supports around 900 people across five sites in Oxfordshire to get back to paid employment, volunteering, and to participate in their community; to have a sense of purpose. In order to achieve this, Restore offer recovery programmes tailored to the needs of their members, such as employment coaching, training courses, and practical therapeutic work rehabilitation.

Claire Spence-Parsons said: “Restore’s work relies on the generosity of local businesses, volunteers, and the community. We are delighted to have the continued support of the staff and clients of Whitley Stimpson, who have done a wonderful job in bringing people together in a safe and socially-distanced manner. In spite of trying circumstances such as these, that the Golf Day has gone so well exemplifies their commitment to supporting our cause and helping to raise awareness of the impact that purpose and self-worth have for people recovering from mental ill-health.

“COVID-19 has significantly impacted our work; we had to remotely support our members – staying in touch by phone, video chat, and letters – but have now re-opened our sites with strict measures in place to ensure the safety of everyone. Throughout all of this we have been so inspired by the commitment of our own staff, volunteers, and our incredible members – who have persevered through far more trying times in their own mental health journey.

“Our members are the heart of our work, and events such as the Golf Day enable us to provide our vital services for them.”

Whitley Stimpson which has offices in Banbury, Bicester, High Wycombe and Witney officially returned to the workplace on 1st September. For more information about the COVID-19 response visit www.whitleystimpson.co.uk or to learn more about Restore, including how to refer to the service, fundraise for them, or volunteer visit www.restore.org.uk