The Wag 60 second interview with… Sean Churchill!

Sean Churchill, Regional Sales Manager for Arco, tells us why they are committed to supporting Wag and Company.

Why does Arco help charities like Wag?  Whilst our core purpose is to keep people safe at work and ensure they go home safely at the end of the day; we have always recognised our responsibilities to the communities within which we operate.

Arco is committed to making a meaningful difference by providing support through donating colleagues’ time volunteering and contributing substantial funds through charitable donations, fund-matching and sponsorship of partnership agreements.

The aim of our work is to do three things: to inspire local young people to achieve their full potential, to enhance local life, making the communities we serve better places to live and finally to align to our purpose, we aim to help keep communities safer.

For myself, my team and their families it is extremely rewarding to support a charity and an organisation that brings so much pleasure to older people who miss and long for the companionship of a four legged friend.

Why did you choose Wag?   Everyone can relate to Wag, we are a nation of dog lovers and the reward is instant. The benefit of a visit is etched in the memory of those who receive such kindness and it is visible to everyone.  Small donations also mean so much.  It stimulates everyone to be involved.

What do you do to help Wag and why?   We support Wag in a number of ways that suit our business.  We sponsor and supply the branded Wag polo shirts for the volunteers, it ensures that those dedicating their time to represent the charity have the correct uniform and our commitment allows valuable funds to be spent elsewhere.

We provide a £50 voucher each month for the Wag Volunteer Prize Draw, we give all volunteers a discount from our products, we provide all the Walk for Wag red walker T shirts and provide raffle prizes and general support.

I also became a Trustee Director this year, helping Wag to grow and move forward.

How hard is it for companies to support Wag?   It isn’t. It takes a little bit of organisation, some communication, but it isn’t hard.

How rewarding is it? For myself, my team and their families it is extremely rewarding. To understand how you can support a charity and an organisation that brings so much pleasure to older people who miss and long for the companionship of a four legged friend. There is also a huge amount of fun when we get together to do the Walk for Wag at Kielder.

What does it mean to people in Arco to support Wag’s special friendships?   It is all about giving something back and sending a team to the Walk for Wag is so much fun; everyone of all ages can get involved and support Wag. The Kielder setting is glorious, if you are unable to walk 10km there is a 3km walk, if that’s not possible, just enjoy the occasion,the company, the entertainment, the countryside, buy a raffle ticket, make a donation and have a cup of tea.

Why should other companies help Wag?  It is not exclusive, it allows everyone to be involved in some way or other. Loneliness is a huge problem. This pandemic has shown the value of the company of a dog. Imagine if you were unable to look after your own pet. How much would regular visits mean to you or one of your own friends or relatives?