Better Communities

Big Build

Big Build is our corporate social responsibility project, which first took place in 2009. We work with Splash Community Projects to help local charities. Our aim is to provide new, improved and urgently needed facilities.

We have worked to support those with mental health issues, disabilities, children, the elderly, and individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. We strive to create an environment where everyone in our community feels a sense of belonging and importance. We are passionate about promoting awareness around diversity, inclusion and sustainability.

In 2022, we provided an enhanced allotment space, warehouse facilities and digital expertise to local food poverty charity, Loveworks.

I cannot emphasise what a fantastic impact you have made on our organisation. You helped us realise a number of our aims and other new opportunities. We would definitely recommend other charities to take the plunge, trust what you can do and be open to opportunities. Thank you to everyone at Splash and Santander who were involved. – Kate, Chief Charity Office, Loveworks.

We also took the Big Build abroad for the first time in 2022. Working with our colleagues from Santander Consumer Finance in Madrid, we created a rehabilitation garden for Fundacion Manantial. Their mission is to provide comprehensive care for people with mental illness.

Previous years has also seen Big Build support and improve facilities for Age Concern, Brooklands School, Young Epilepsy, Hindleap Warren and The Children’s Trust.

The Charity, Sport & Social Committee

The Charity, Sport & Social Committee was formed as a direct result of employee feedback. Our people wanted more opportunity to give something back to the community and support wider charitable causes. The Committee not only gives Santander Consumer Finance the chance to make a real difference, but also allows our people to develop their professional skills. The Committee meets monthly, planning and organising events to raise money for employee-nominated charities. In addition to this, they run sports and social events to promote a lively and inclusive atmosphere in the company.

In recent years, with the valued support of dealer and manufacturer partners, we have raised more than £200,000 for our nominated charities. The resource and skills of the team are equally valuable. In addition to fundraising, we have also increased awareness and provided time and expertise to those charities.