Guernsey Press

Business panel: Finance industry gives back to the community

WHAT does the finance industry put back into the local community?

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Mel Torode, operations director, Estera Guernsey, replies:

THE financial services industry is extremely important to Guernsey, with the number of firms based here testament to its success as a global financial centre. Indeed, the financial services sector is the largest sector in Guernsey and makes up 21% of employment in the island (Guernsey Economic Overview, May 2018).

The great thing about having so many multinational businesses based in Guernsey is that the vast majority of them are sincerely committed to giving back to the community here. The finance industry takes its responsibilities to society very seriously and most of the businesses on the island work hard to support local charities and good causes.

The Guernsey Community Foundation is involved in a wide array of projects that promote effective philanthropy and building the capacity of the voluntary sector. Its Community Awards celebrate the organisations and businesses that are raising money for local charities and undertaking community projects. The finance industry is always well represented in the list of nominees and winners of the annual awards, reflecting the industry’s commitment to making a difference to everyone in Guernsey.

Guernsey’s financial firms support educational, sporting, cultural and environmental causes that make a real difference and bring people together. Initiatives include everything from cleaning beaches to reading in primary schools and helping to improve the physical and mental well-being of the island’s population.

At Estera, we encourage sport for all and, for example, sponsor a series of sailing races, a young female footballer, a Guernsey cycling team and Guernsey badminton, as well as donating to local charities such as the GSPCA and community initiatives. We are proud to fund-match our employees’ own charitable giving and support the causes close to their hearts.

Unlike much larger centres like London, Guernsey has the benefit of a first-class financial services industry working in a small community. We all benefit from the fact that we can therefore build hands-on relationships and genuinely give back to those around us in terms of both money and time.

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