A platform designed to connect local businesses with community causes has launched in Swansea.
Swansea Business Improvement District (BID) is introducing Neighbourly to its members. The initiative enables businesses to offer volunteering time, services, and resources to local charities and projects, promoting social responsibility and community engagement.
It supports a wide range of initiatives, including food donations, employee volunteering, and community grants, helping to address pressing social issues and improve local communities.
Andrew Douglas, head of operations at Swansea BID, said:
“We are incredibly proud to bring Neighbourly to our BID businesses. With more than 800 businesses located within our BID area, it means that local causes have the opportunity to receive direct support from a huge body of businesses, all the while giving businesses a chance to give back to the causes that need their help most.”
A local cause registered on the Neighbourly platform is Swansea Community Farm. Located in Fforestfach, the community-led charity exists to improve wellbeing, build skills, and create a sense of belonging, through caring for animals, local wildlife and the community farmland.
Kate Gibbs, Chief Executive of Swansea Community Farm, said:
“It’s crucial for businesses to support charities like ours, as we assist people in direct need in Swansea, helping them improve their lives and communities. Our farm is more than just a city farm; it’s a wellbeing project for those with poor mental health, who see significant improvements through our activities. Connecting businesses and charities fosters mutual support and learning, benefiting everyone involved.”
The launch of Neighbourly follows the successful roll-out of the Billy Chip scheme, where members of the public can purchase BillyChip tokens from participating food and drink outlets, which they can then gift to rough sleepers as an alternative to cash.
