NI Water volunteers have supported Newry's Southern Area Hospice for over ten years, contributing to the development and upkeep of the hospice's beautiful gardens.

The volunteering day is part of NI Water's 'Cares Challenge' project, which has been thriving for over ten years and stands as one of the largest corporate volunteering programmes in the province. So far, over 1,500 staff members have participated in 100 challenges, contributing more than 10,000 hours of volunteer work to support communities across Northern Ireland.

NI Water Cares Challenge Volunteer Anthony Toner stated: "Volunteering at the Hospice over the last 15 years, helping them maintain and develop their beautiful gardens, has been extremely rewarding and something I look forward to every year."

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As part of the programme, activities are organised annually for various groups across Northern Ireland, in collaboration with Business in the Community's NI Cares Programme. This initiative identifies local organisations and charities that require assistance with physical tasks such as gardening and painting.

Rose Kelly, Director of People and Learning explained: "Our handy helpers have undertaken everything from gardening, painting and maintenance to environmental and fundraising days. It is often the extra support that these groups require to enhance their facilities, improve the lives of their members and operate their centres successfully.

"Volunteering has also proved to be a key part of our health and wellbeing toolkit. Our teams gain so much from the experience, not only by helping the community, but also having the chance to spend time with colleagues from around the business that they might not otherwise have a chance to meet."

In the latest project, volunteers from across the organisation made a valuable contribution to helping develop and maintain the Hospices beautiful gardens.