This week, 8-14th June, is Islington Giving Week. Islington Giving is a consortium of funders working to tackle local problems and make Islington a better place for everyone. The organisation supports over 40 organisations who are investing in young people, tackling poverty and confronting isolation.
Islington Giving week is an annual programme of activities and events to raise awareness and understanding of the poverty and inequality faced by many Islington residents, both young and old. Behind the stereotype of leafy Georgian squares occupied by wealthy professional Islington has some shocking statistics:
- 16,500 children and young people live in poverty – that’s the fourth highest level of child poverty in England and the second highest in London
- Islington has the highest male suicide rate in London
- Islington has the 4th highest level of older people living in poverty in England
Euromonitor has been based in Islington for over 40 years and we believe it’s really important to support and build links with the local community. Like many Islington companies we don’t have the resources to solve the issues that face Islington residents on our own, but by being part of something bigger we are able to contribute to change.
So what is happening this week?
We’re rising to the challenge set by Islington Giving to make this week a #differentweek .
On Tuesday a squad of 8 staff members will be taking part in a 5-a-side football tournament at the home of Arsenal, the Emirates stadium. Competing against other corporate teams we’re hoping our guys can bring home the cup!
Then on Friday we’ve a team of 10 taking on the Walk the Line Challenge – covering a distance of 13.1 miles the team will learn more about Islington landmarks, famous faces, history and fascinating trivia as they race to walk to the borough boundary in the fastest time.
I’d like to wish both teams the best of luck! Check back next week to find out how the guys go on.
But, the week isn’t just about companies competing there are lots of activities happening throughout the week that individuals and groups of friends can get involved with, click here to see the full line up of events.
