Cost management, demand from the public and increased stakeholder scrutiny is motivating companies to become more socially and environmentally responsible. Operating businesses in a manner exceeding the ethical, legal, commercial and public expectation.
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Corporate social responsibility goes beyond making charitable donations or
suggesting staff undertake voluntary work. Whilst working with charities and
enabling staff to do a number of days charity work on company pay is an aspect
of CSR, a rounded policy should go further. It may be a good idea to speak to
your Accountants in Cheltenham about how best you can incorporate CSR into
your business, especially if donations to charities are going to make up a
part of your strategy. cheltenham accountants randall & payne can help
with all aspects of this and further accounting practices for you as well.
Responsible Environmental Practices
Research conducted by the Environment Agency shows evidence of an attitude
shift. In 2005 25 per cent of SMEs were concerned about the environment and
taking action to curb their environmental impact. By 2015 that figure had
risen to 58 per cent of SMEs with an environmental policy.
CSR covers global issues; recycling, utilising renewable energy and donating
unsold product rather than landfilling it, whilst also considering more
localised responsibilities as well.
Businesses implementing sustainable practices report benefits including
reduced costs, positive customer response, improved profitability and making
them a more attractive employer.
Responsible Supply Chain Management
A CSR policy should be applied across the supply chain and taken into
consideration when commercial decisions are being made.
The 2013 collapse of the Rana Plaza in Bangladesh caused
the death of 1,200 low-paid workers and retailers including Marks &
Spencer, Primark and H&M became embroiled in a PR nightmare. Customers are
not comfortable with companies using suppliers that disregard the health and
safety of their employees.
Staff Welfare
In a survey for Forbes magazine over 75 per cent of respondents cited that one
of the benefits of CSR was better employees. Either as a result of being able
to attract better talent or their CSR programmes developing better employees.
The health and wellbeing of employees is the cornerstone of a CSR policy.
Competitive remuneration packages, a focus on employee stability, and
opportunities for training and development, with promotion prospects all
improve staff satisfaction and retention.
A comprehensive CSR policy should mean clients want to work with a company. In
addition, by operating more efficiently costs are reduced and employees are
proud of the company they work for, motivating them to perform at their best.
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