All businesses impact on the society and environment in which they operate in a variety of ways. I am committed to operating my business in ways that minimise and reduce these negative impacts.
As a responsible business, I operate in an honest and ethical manner, consider people and the environment when making business decisions and endeavour to make a positive contribution to my local community and society at large. I also aim to use my capability and skills to impact positively where possible. This includes recognising the influence that I have over other businesses as a result of the training, coaching and consultancy work that I do. I acknowledge that I must regard myself as a role model for others and must therefore behave accordingly.
In 2013 Flourishing People received a Gold Award from the Responsible Business Standard in recognition of the responsible way in which the business operates. The Award was presented by Matthew Hancock MP. James Davey, who assessed Flourishing People said in his report “Flourishing People are an excellent example of good practice in a small business. Jacqui is responsible for all aspects of the business from administration to delivery through to strategy and policy. It was clear straight away that Jacqui is dedicated to providing a first class service to her customers delivered with passion and in an ethical manner.”
If you would like to see a copy of my Responsible Business Policy please contact me on jacqui@flourishingpeople.co.uk
Supporting my local community
I provide services at a discounted rate for local charities and social enterprises, and offer pro-bono services to local charities. I have also mentored start-up businesses run by residents of Freckenham without charge, helping them with their business planning, and provide career coaching . I have provided work experience opportunities for start-up consultants and students in order to provide case studies and client testimonials to enhance their CVs.
I was a School Governor for 19 years. This role enabled me to contribute to my local community in a way that supports my passion for learning and development. I believe that adult learning begins with helping children to develop a love of learning and if, as a society, we can get that right we provide a firm foundation for learning in later life.
In 2015 I received the Newmarket & District Chamber of Commerce Individual, Contribution to the Community Award in recognition of my work within the local community.
Supporting charities I care about
I currently provide active support to the Rural Coffee Caravan as a Trustee and fund raiser. The Coffee Caravan makes regular visits to rural communities helping to overcome rural loneliness and isolation.
I have supported Macmillan Cancer Support as a trained Macmillan Cancer Voice. My voluntary work with the charity has involved a wide range of interesting activities. In particular I have contributed to projects around Survivorship and Cancer at Work.
I raised over £9,000 for the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation in memory of my late husband Mark Russell. The Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation is the only UK charity wholly dedicated to fighting lung cancer, the UK’s biggest cancer killer. They campaign for earlier diagnosis and better treatments in an effort to prevent thousands dying each year from this horrible disease.
Following the US withdrawal from Afghanistan and the chaotic evacuation of people who had worked with the British forces from Kabul Airport, I volunteered with Suffolk Refugee Support offering support and friendship to refugees settled in Newmarket.
Supporting the environment
Flourishing People complies with any environmental legislation that applies to the business. In addition to this I endeavour to minimise the impact that delivery of my services has on the environment, where ever it is practical to do so. I will also support and encourage any actions taken by my clients to do the same.
In 2011 I committed to the Low Carbon Champions Programme which aims to help businesses reduce their carbon emissions. This programme supported me through a programme of self-assessment and planning to reduce the carbon footprint of my business activity.
In May 2012 I received the Newmarket & District Chamber of Commerce Environmental Awareness Award. Flourishing People was recognised by the judges for taking steps to reduce the impact that business activity has on the environment and for raising the awareness of clients about environmental issues.
In June 2012 Flourishing People achieved Silver recognition through the Suffolk Carbon Charter Accreditation Scheme.