This is a talking point published in the Hereford Times on September 26.

Sharon Smith, chief executive, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce

WHY do businesses adopt corporate social responsibility? Is it for the business, society, or both?

Adapting a corporate social responsibility takes dedication, commitment, and most importantly, a plan or strategy something we’ve been focusing on over the past year here at the Chamber. But where do you start?

Firstly, you must consider what your business can do to engage in corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Typically, CSR refers to companies taking responsibility for their impact on society and the environment.

This ranges from environmentally sustainable initiatives such as reducing paper usage, switching to sustainable packaging, or participating in waste production programs.

Businesses are also becoming B Corp certified, a highly commended certification that demonstrates a business dedication and commitment to sustainability and social impact.

Community engagement usually entails working with charities, fundraising or volunteering, for causes to improve the local area, or investing in apprenticeship schemes, work experience, scholarships, and the new generation of workers.

As chief executive of the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, I place the highest importance on corporate social responsibility (CSR).

This commitment goes beyond enhancing our reputation– it’s about building trust with local businesses and showing that, as a not-for-profit organisation, we are dedicated to supporting the success of the business community across both counties.

Our efforts with local charities are at the core of our CSR strategy. We not only help raise awareness of their missions, but we also offer hands-on support.

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What are your thoughts?

You can send a letter to the editor to have your say by clicking here.

Letters should not exceed 250 words and local issues take precedence.

Our charity forums offer a space for charities to share best practice and discuss industry opportunities.

We provide reduced membership rates for charity and volunteer businesses; and we have introduced a CSR day for our staff to volunteer for local causes.

Additionally, we are proud to be a Gold Accredited organisation under the Armed Forces Covenant, supporting the employment of military veterans.