Support for the Community
Early in 2006 Glencairn was delighted to become involved in the Lloyd's Community Programme ('LCP') through participation in the reading and number partner volunteer schemes.
LCP was set up in 1989 to promote community involvement within Lloyd's and across the companies that form the Lloyd's community. Its mission is to help improve the opportunities and environment of the people of Tower Hamlets and neighbouring East London boroughs by mobilising the support and involvement of individuals and companies in the Lloyd's market. In partnership with Tower Hamlets Education Business Partnership the LCP delivers its education programme through a variety of projects including reading, numeracy, IT partner schemes and mentoring. The programme is designed to raise career aspirations and encourage higher achievement amongst students in Tower Hamlets.
Tower Hamlets, despite its close proximity to the City of London is one of the most deprived boroughs in the country. For example, 66% of children qualify for free school meals against a national average of 18%. For 64% of Tower Hamlets pupils English is a second language, an additional factor impacting their progress through school.
During the summer term, commencing in April, twelve volunteers from Glencairn worked with seven pupils from Years 3 and 4 at the English Martyrs RC School, in St Marks Street, London E1. Volunteers paired up and one volunteer from each pair visited the school for half an hour each week, during their Wednesday lunchtime, to either listen and encourage the pupil with his or her reading or help develop their numeracy skills.
Due to the success of the scheme, and the commitment of the volunteers, for the Autumn term two additional volunteers have been recruited. It is also planned that during 2007 Glencairn will extend its involvement in the Lloyd's Community Programme through a team challenge participating in a one-off, one day practical project in the local community.
As well as benefiting the local community, the LPC scheme has also helped to develop the skills of the volunteers.