HWB staff put stamp on charity fund-raising

Saving postage stamps for the past 36 months helped staff at Hampshire based chartered accountancy firm HWB to raise funds for a vital lifesaving charity.

The idea to raise much needed funds for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance was supported by everyone at the firm.

Colleagues simply saved franked stamps from any mail received at the Chandlers Ford or at their home addresses.

Michaela Johns, Director and charities specialist at HWB said: “We are delighted to have been able to help this vital local charity. It costs £15,000 a day to maintain the life-saving service, with each mission costing the Charity £2,882.

“So, although this is only a small contribution to this crucial service, we hope to continue our collection and encourage others to assist the charity – this is one thing hopefully everyone can do.”

Keith Wilson, Director of Marketing and Communications, said: “The stamps will be sent to auction where they sell for approximately £20 per 0.75kg, so this donation from HWB will be of great value to us. We are extremely grateful to the staff at HWB for supporting us and our patients. It is only thanks to the generosity of the communities that we serve that we are able keep the Air Ambulance flying and saving lives.”

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance is an independent charity that brings an advanced critical care team to the most seriously ill and injured patients in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, giving them the best chance of survival and recovery, when the worst happens.

As part of the range of services offered by the Chandlers Ford based firm, a specialist team offers advice to charities and not-for-profit organisations.

Michaela added: “Managing the finances of a charity requires a pragmatic approach with a clear understanding of the compliance issues of the sector. As charity accountants, we specialise in supporting the finance team through the legal requirements that come with charitable status.

“Our clients range from new start-up charities to centuries-old, from clubs and membership organisations to social enterprises. Some of our team are trustees themselves to charitable or not-for-profit organisations and this brings added value in terms of providing practical solutions to clients.”