The Cambridge Building Society has continued its community outreach with a series of volunteering activities supporting homelessness charities in the region, as part of its ongoing Making The Difference initiative.
A team from the marketing department recently visited Emmaus Cambridge, using their skills to create content, signage and noticeboards aimed at amplifying the charity’s message and celebrating the work of its companions – people rebuilding their lives after experiencing homelessness.
“This creative support followed a previous day of litter picking and gardening carried out by the society’s mortgage advisers at Emmaus’s headquarters and retail site in Landbeach.
Andrea Barnes, digital development lead at The Cambridge, said: “For us, contributing creatively like designing the entrance board to their shop was a small act that helped tell powerful stories and made people feel seen and valued.
“Hearing about one companion who had once lived a comfortable life but lost everything reminded us how quickly circumstances can change. The resilience and hope we witnessed was truly inspiring, and it highlighted how vital the work of Emmaus is.”
Emmaus Cambridge is one of three community partners being supported by The Cambridge in 2025. The others are It Takes a City and Jimmy’s Cambridge, with all three receiving financial grants and dedicated volunteering hours from staff.
As part of this commitment, Jimmy’s Cambridge engagement officer Cat Strawbridge has been visiting branches to explain the impact of the society’s support and strengthen staff understanding of how the partnership is helping vulnerable individuals. Her next visit is scheduled for 21st May, when she will meet with staff at the customer contact centre.
Holly Smith, customer engagement team lead at The Cambridge’s Central Cambridge store, said: “It was inspiring to hear from Cat and to learn more about the great work Jimmy’s is doing. The team really appreciated the chance to ask questions and better understand how we are directly supporting people through our partnership.”
The Cambridge’s Making The Difference programme seeks to provide not just financial assistance, but meaningful staff engagement that supports its goal of helping everyone have a safe and secure home.
