Channel partners and existing business customers who wish to support Chess’ fundraising efforts on behalf of the NSPCC can visit the 118 520 website at www.118520.co.uk and click on the supporter pack page to receive a pledge pack including posters, stickers and information on the number.
In addition, Chess will also donate £250 to the NSPCC on any businesses behalf if they don’t succeed in reducing its call spend by 10% as part of it’s ‘Win, Win, Win’ promotion. Chess will also reward any businesses who join through the promotion by donating 100% of their first months call spend as an additional donation to the NSPCC.
David Pollock, chief executive, Chess, said: “With UK business and private callers spending around £180 million on calls to directory enquiries numbers in the past 12 months, the opportunity we have to support the NSPCC in its fundraising activity is phenomenal. If we can gain just ten per cent share of the 118 number market with 118 520 we could raise £3 million every year for the NSPCC.
“We have 200 channel partners and 10,000 business customers across the country and if each one of these visited the 118 520 site and pledged its commitment to using the number, it would contribute significantly to our fundraising efforts.”
Elizabeth Pickup, corporate partnerships fundraiser, NSPCC, added: “Using the new 118 520 directory enquiry service is a very easy way for Chess customers to show their support for the NSPCC. Without the support of partners like Chess and their customers we would not be able to continue our work with vulnerable children and young people who really need our help.”
Chess’ fundraising initiative with the NSPCC reflects its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility through its existing charitable and community work with organisation such as The Princes Trust and its commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its business activities.
As well as the charitable benefits of using the 118 520 number the service also provides channel partners and businesses who make the switch from their existing provider with a robust, quality directory enquiries service. The 118 520 number was recently awarded the DA awards ‘European Best Newcomer Award’ for 2007 at its prestigious awards gala in Barcelona in October.