The first community fund of its kind in Shropshire reached more than 1,200 people in its first year, new figures revealed today.
A new report has revealed the “pioneering” impact of the McPhillips Community Fund, launched in partnership with the Shropshire Community Foundation to mark Telford-based McPhillips’ 60th anniversary.
Grass-roots organisations and community charities were selected to receive a share of the fund from 47 eligible applications — representing a combined funding request of £190,300.
Applications were invited from projects and initiatives focused on improving mental health, reducing social isolation and promoting long-term wellbeing.
Paul Inions, managing director of McPhillips, said: “We wanted to reach organisations that go under the radar. We didn’t want to just write a cheque; we wanted to create something structured and lasting that would make a real difference to people’s lives across Shropshire.
“Throughout the year, director Val Hardy, our social value co-ordinator Emily Myatt and other members of the McPhillips team have met with these organisations and charities to see the impact the fund is having. Our entire company is proud of the difference we are making.”
McPhillips funded Brightstar Boxing Academy‘s Empower Programme to build confidence in young people, Community Resource’s Buddy System to help combat loneliness; a weekly mental health community group which meets in Telford run through the 4 All Foundation and Home-Start Telford & Wrekin’s ‘Something More’ course.
And children at primary schools across the county received mindfulness and mental wellbeing sessions through Amber Bee CIC, helping pupils to navigate the anxious move to secondary school.
In the report, Sonia Roberts, trustee of Shropshire Community Foundation said: “McPhillips has taken a pioneering approach to corporate social responsibility that goes beyond traditional charitable giving.
“The fund has helped to define and communicate a clear CSR identity for the organisation, both internally and externally. By funding trusted, community-based organisations, McPhillips ensured support reached those most in need, with approaches that are flexible, inclusive and responsive to local contexts.”
The 4 All Foundation reached more than 140 adults in Telford, many isolated, with the McPhillips funded sessions described as ‘a lifeline’ for participants.
At Brightstar Boxing Academy, 100% of participants achieved positive outcomes, while at Community Resource, the Buddy System exceeded its target by 135 per cent with measured wellbeing improvements reaching as high as 50 per cent.
Building on the success of the first year, McPhillips has pledged a further £20,000 to the fund in 2026 — this time with a focus on men’s mental health and veterans in particular.
The new theme was shaped by the views of McPhillips’ 220-strong team, with more than half selecting mental health and wellbeing as their priority cause, subsequently refined to reflect the company’s longstanding commitment as a signatory of the Armed Forces Covenant.
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