Clarion: Investing in local communities

At Clarion we firmly believe it is important not only to invest our time and skills to provide our clients with a high-quality financial planning service but that, when appropriate, we should also invest in local communities.

At the end of last year, we made a donation to a Wilmslow-based charity, Rob and his Angels, a group of volunteers led by Rob Topping, who support disadvantaged families.

Our £5,000 donation prompted Rob to say “We were able to provide over 2,000 meals to children that school liaison officers identified as needing our help. We were able to deliver thousands of presents to children, from new-borns to 17‐year‐olds. Most importantly, for the teenagers, it gave them tools to move forward and become more independent.”

Our founder Ron Walker said: “A shocking side‐effect of the lockdown was that many families were struggling to feed their children while they were out of school or give them the Christmas they deserved. It was an honour to help Rob and his Angels to continue with their vital work at such a difficult time – no child should go hungry in this day and age.”

We have also taken the lead in support of a national charity which transforms family pets into disability assistance dogs through our Clarion Welsby Family Foundation. DOG A.I.D. (Assistance in Disability) pairs volunteer trainers with physically disabled dog owners who need daily practical help and life‐saving interventions.

Once trained the dogs can help with anything from removing their owner’s coat to alerting them to get medical assistance for life‐threatening infections such as sepsis. The animals give their owners more independence and help to reduce their feelings of isolation.

Ron said: “These dogs are more than just man’s best friend; they are potential life-savers every day for their owners. We are proud to support a charity that empowers people and their pets to form such a strong partnership that can help overcome life‐changing conditions.”

The Clarion Welsby Family Foundation has sponsored two dog training partnerships and two more are set to begin as Covid restrictions ease. A dog can take up to two years to be fully trained.

To join us in supporting either DOG A.I.D. email fundraising@dogaid.org.uk or visit www.dogaid.org.uk, or visit www.facebook.com/robandhisangels to support Rob and his Angels.