Shell is a global group of energy and petrochemicals companies providing energy for millions of people in the UK. They chose to support Action for Blind People (part of RNIB Group) throughout 2011/12.
Shell's enABLE initiative
Within Shell they have a specialist initiative called 'enABLE'. The enABLE network in Shell focuses on the abilities of individuals and aims to break down preconceived perceptions about people with disabilities in the UK.
The enABLE network in Shell UK wanted to raise the profile of sight loss within the business and approached Action for Blind People to partner with them throughout 2011/12.
Numerous events took place and one of the highlights was filming James Smith, the former Chairman of Shell UK, spending half a day blindfolded in order to demonstrate the many challenges a person suffering from sight loss faces every day.
In total over 280 Shell staff, from the UK and beyond, undertook a gruelling swimathon to raise much needed funds for the work of Action. The original intention was for swimmers individually or in teams to swim the 22 mile distance of the English Channel in a swimming pool. In actual fact the total distance swum was just over 1300 miles with 10 individuals and 38 teams taking part in the month long challenge.
"We wanted to support Action for Blind People in their invaluable work by running a sponsored event that would be challenging and open to all.
"The enABLE network in Shell focuses on the abilities, not the disabilities, of individuals. We're very proud that our fundraising will go some way towards helping those with sight loss regain confidence, live independently and achieve their ambitions. I'm so proud of everyone who participated."
Organiser Jodie Greer, from Shell UK
Find out more about corporate partnerships
To find out more about becoming an RNIB corporate partner, please email us at fundraising@rnib.org.uk or call us on 0845 345 0054 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm).