We were thrilled to host NatWest employees for a corporate volunteer day at the Turing Trust, bringing together employees from different backgrounds, roles, and even countries. This initiative allowed them to engage in hands-on work, support a meaningful cause, and strengthen connections within their teams.
For Pallavi, who is currently enrolled in NatWest’s India Graduate Scheme, volunteering at the Turing Trust was an entirely new experience. Programmes like this are not as common in India, so she welcomed the opportunity to gain hands-on experience while supporting a good cause.
Coming from a management background herself, Pallavi valued the structured approach and clear, engaging guidance provided throughout the day. With ongoing support from our team and her colleagues, she got stuck in with a range of tasks, from dismantling machines to preparing devices for reuse. This experience not only helped her to develop her confidence and gain new skills, but inspired her to continue her volunteering work back home.
“I first heard about the Turing Trust a few years ago as the recipient of our decommissioned mobile devices. Being a techie at heart, it seemed like the perfect volunteering opportunity, but just hadn’t got round to it. I saw an internal comms about a colleague’s volunteering day with you, and after a short email conversation with her, I set up our team’s day. We’re already talking about returning for another day!”
Eleanor, who co-leads NatWest’s People and Community Council for graduates, also played a key role in organising the event. Her work involves identifying smaller charities, such as the Turing Trust, that may not have large social media budgets or widespread awareness and connecting them with corporate volunteers. She believes that initiatives like this not only provide essential support to charities but also allow graduates and employees to develop skills in teamwork, leadership, and project management. For her, volunteering is not just about helping others; it’s also a fulfilling way to blend professional development with personal growth.
The corporate volunteer day also served as a valuable team-building exercise, with one volunteering adding: “It was a brilliant way to do team building without having to call it that. A couple of the team had never met in person before, so that was an added benefit”.
It was a real pleasure to work alongside the NatWest team, and we’re so grateful for their support. During their time with us, they tested 143 cables and boxed 144 Laptops which will directly impact around 2,600 pupils.
We’re always keen to welcome new teams to our workshop here in Edinburgh! Whether you’re looking to gain hands-on technical skills, build connections with colleagues, or simply make a difference, our corporate volunteering days offer a unique and rewarding experience for all involved. Get in touch with Izzy to find out how your organisation can join our corporate volunteering programme.
