A NEW partnership has emerged between Worcester-based business networking company Sterling Networks and leading UK disability charity Leonard Cheshire.

The partnership emerged after Neil and Tracey Davis of Sterling Networks visited Gloucestershire House, the Leonard Cheshire care home in Cheltenham. The care home is one of the charity’s 130 services across the UK.

Mr Davis, Sterling’s managing director, said: “We are so impressed by the range of services and programmes that this national charity delivers locally - directly contributing to our local communities, homes and businesses, supporting people to live as independently as they choose.

"This partnership has the potential to make a difference within our business community.”

The partnership between Leonard Cheshire and Sterling will see disability awareness and disability inclusion being highlighted on the agenda in each of the 17 networking groups run by Sterling.

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There will also be several awareness-raising and fundraising events throughout the partnership to complement the networking programme.

Regional fundraising executive for Leonard Cheshire, Sarah Grout, said: “Our partnership with Sterling Networks is further proof of just how serious we are about connecting with local businesses and working with them to make a real difference to disabled people in our area.

“With the help of the Sterling network we can reach out and support local businesses to become more inclusive and diverse employers, boost their commitment to social responsibility, share skills and access new talent.

"We are thrilled and proud to be part of such a forward-thinking network.”

Sterling Networks are encouraging member and non-member businesses to explore ways in which they can make a difference with Leonard Cheshire and to consider becoming more disability inclusive businesses.

The charity will be featured on the Sterling Networks website and showcased at the Sterling Business Expo being held at the Sixways Stadium in Worcester on February 27.

Sterling Networks is based in Midland Road, Worcester.

For more information, go to www.sterlingnetworks.co.uk/

For more information about Leonard Cheshire, go to: www.leonardcheshire.org/