On International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, Irwell Insurance is delighted to announce our 12-month commitment to supporting Mustard Tree – to give back to our local Manchester community.

Manchester has one of the highest rates of homelessness, with 1 in 74 people experiencing homelessness and rates rising by 34% per year in Manchester alone.

Mustard Tree aims to tackle the root causes of homelessness, specifically unemployment, addiction and long-term sickness and offers support for people from all walks of life across their three sites including the main community hub based in Ancoats.

Mustard Tree gives a hand up, not just a handout.

Through their ‘Freedom Project’ they provide training courses and classes to give people life skills and work experience to help them escape poverty. Their hubs provide a welcoming and safe environment, with an emphasis on creating positivity and ambition.

Featuring a community shop, a kitchen and coffee shop offering dishes made by trainees and food donated by local independent stores, Mustard Tree offers a thriving environment for those looking to gain and develop vital life and employment skills.

Everyone is welcome to drop by and sample the delicious breakfast and lunch menu or browse the shop for clothes and furniture. Supporting these services makes the world of difference – not only raising vital funds but also building confidence and employment skills to last a lifetime – from baristas and PAC testers to sales assistants and chefs.

Irwell Insurance is committed to a 12-month partnership by actively taking part in staff volunteer days as well as fundraising activities including the Manchester Marathon, Tough Mudder and even abseiling!

“We are delighted to be supporting this wonderful, deserving and much-needed charity. The response from our staff to get involved in volunteering and fundraising has been inspiring.

We are looking forward to supporting Mustard Tree make a difference to people living in poverty in Manchester – everyone deserves to have the dignity and security of a home and employment.”

Giles Reading, Chief Executive Officer

“Delighted is an understatement that Irwell has committed to supporting Mustard Tree! Over the next 12 months, their financial donations and hands-on, practical support will help change people’s lives.”

Rachel Crank, Fundraising Officer

To find out more information about Mustard Tree and how they are helping to prevent poverty, visit their website  www.mustardtree.org.uk

If you wish to donate to Mustard Tree please do so via this link- https://www.justgiving.com/page/irwell?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL

Mustard Tree services at a glance

• Provide training courses to build life skills
• Freedom project – gaining work experience to help them find permanent employment
• Welcome people from all walks of life – those starting off their journey with Mustard Tree (in urgent need) to those who have escaped poverty but need a little extra support (furniture for their new home for example)
• Classes and clubs – writing a CV, English lessons and art workshops
• 40% of items are given for free and vouchers can be used in the food bank