Santander has updated thier employee volunteering programme. From this year, full-time colleagues will have a 14-hour volunteering allowance, with the first phase of opportunities dedicated to The King’s Trust. If you work part-time, you’ll get a pro-rata allowance to reflect your hours. The allowance was previously 70 hours (35 before Covid) but take-up was low, with fewer than 5% of colleagues taking part. This new approach gives a clear, shared goal that’s fully aligned with the bank’s strategy and their partnership with The King’s Trust.

Mark Homans, Head of Social Impact, Santander explains….

“One of the great things about Santander is our united commitment to helping people. We want people to achieve their dreams – whether that’s getting on the property ladder, running a business, or improving their career prospects.
“That’s why we chose The King’s Trust as our charity partner for the next five years. Like us, they believe every young person deserves the chance to succeed.
By working together, we can help people build the skills they need to improve their future and unlock new opportunities. It’s the perfect match.
This partnership is a key part of our UK strategy. It’s something everyone of us can influence. We’ve set ourselves a bold ambition: to reach 10,000 volunteering opportunities with The King’s Trust by 2030.”

Ambition to opportunity
Mark continues: “Through volunteering, we’ll open doors, build confidence, and inspire progress where it matters most. This is just the first phase of our volunteering programme, with opportunities beyond The King’s Trust coming later this year. By taking part, you’ll directly shape someone’s career path, act as a positive role model, and help young people develop the skills to live, learn and earn. We’ve already had fantastic feedback on the partnership, but I know this change may feel different – even difficult – for some. Volunteering and charity are deeply personal, and many of us support causes close to our own lives and experiences. Both I, and the bank understand that. But this change isn’t about taking away choice. It’s about focusing our collective efforts where we can have the greatest impact.”

“By coming together as one team, we can create life-changing opportunities for thousands of young people who need a fair chance. Your time, skills, and energy will make a real difference. Not just for the people we support, but in how we live our purpose as a bank. Together, we’ll turn ambition into opportunity and ensure the next generation takes its first steps with confidence.”

Call to action
Opportunities to get involved are now live. You can find out more by visiting The King’s Trust SharePoint, including how to register for an account and start volunteering.
Plus, there’s still time to get involved in the Palace to Palace fundraising challenge. You can do it on your bike or on foot.
If you’re a people manager, you’ll need to complete a process when one of your team volunteers. More info will be shared in October’s Heads Up.