Author: Daniel Lawson

We had the pleasure of speaking with Andie Morris, the Chair of the Eastern Regional Committee for the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) and a key member of Glen Dimplex, to hear about his journey with the charity and the impact it has had on his life and work. From his first encounter with the EIC to his future goals, Andie’s story highlights the importance of giving back and the meaningful work done by the charity. 

How did you first hear about the Electrical Industries Charity? 

“I first heard about the EIC at a wholesalers regional golf day in the summer of 1987 when it was still known as the EEIBA. That event marked the start of my involvement with the charity, and it has only grown from there.” 

What inspired you to become involved with the EIC? 

“My involvement came about when I was volunteered by our ex-chairman, Stuart Mackenzie, who was also the previous president of the EIC when the Eastern Region was ‘re-floated.’ I’ve always wanted to give something back to the industry, and the EIC felt like the perfect opportunity to do so.” 

What resonates most with you about the EIC’s mission and work in the electrical industry? 

“What resonates with me the most are the small things that often have the biggest impact, such as the counselling and support for mental health issues. I’m also a Mental Health First Aider at work, so this is something I feel strongly about. The charity’s focus on these important areas is something I deeply admire.” 

As Chair of the Eastern Regional Committee, what specific goals do you hope to achieve with EIC? 

“As the Chair of the Eastern Regional Committee, my goal is to raise awareness of the charity and run fundraising events within the region. We want to engage more people and encourage them to support the charity. We’re working hard to make the charity’s mission more visible and ensure that people understand how vital it is to our industry.” 

Could you share a memorable moment or proud achievement in your time with the EIC? 

“One of my proudest moments was taking part in the Three Peaks Challenge 4 or 5 years ago. I personally raised over £3,000 for the charity. Although I wouldn’t want to do it again, it was incredibly rewarding to be part of such an impactful event.” 

In your opinion, what impact does the EIC have on individuals and businesses within our industry? 

“While the charity may not yet have the profile we want within the industry, the help we offer to those in need is invaluable. Our efforts to raise awareness seem to be paying off, but there is still a need for more corporate support and involvement.” 

How do you envision the charity evolving over the next few years, and what role do you hope to play in that? 

“I hope the EIC will have a much higher profile and greater awareness across the industry in the coming years. There is potential for more participation from larger businesses, and I want to do whatever I can to help achieve that goal.” 

Are there any projects or future initiatives you’re particularly excited about? 

“I’m particularly excited about the 100km Thames Pathway Challenge, which I’m doing this summer. I had to put it on hold last year, but I’ll be seeking sponsorship and making a personal donation. I’m also looking forward to our Eastern Region Summer event and the Christmas Luncheon.” 

What has been the most rewarding part of your work with the EIC? 

“The most rewarding part is receiving the quiet but sincere ‘thank you’ from someone we’ve been able to help or connect with the right resources. Knowing that our efforts make a real difference to someone’s life is truly fulfilling.” 

What advice would you give to someone considering getting involved with EIC, either as a volunteer or supporter? 

“I would say: Do it! It can be fun, a bit of hard work at times, but the rewards are well worth it. If you’re interested, reach out to the Head Office Team or one of the Regional Chairs. There’s always room for more support.” 

How are you marking our 120th year anniversary? 

“I’m marking this milestone with the Thames Path challenge, our Eastern Region Summer event, and we’ll be wrapping up the year with the Eastern Region Christmas Luncheon. It’s a great way to celebrate and give back as we look ahead to another 120 years of making an impact.” 

Andie’s journey with the Electrical Industries Charity exemplifies the power of dedication and giving back to the community. His ongoing commitment to the charity and its mission will help drive the EIC to new heights in the years to come. 

Andy Roach’s journey with the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) spans two decades, beginning with a simple yet persuasive conversation at an event in Yorkshire. Introduced to the charity by industry figures Eric Dyer and the late Les Adams, Andy was encouraged to get involved. In 2004, he joined the board on a rotational seat—and he’s been a dedicated part of EIC ever since.

A Lifelong Commitment to EIC

Reflecting on what initially inspired him, Andy recalls witnessing the invaluable work the charity was doing, particularly in the early 2000s when Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) were far less common. “Seeing what the charity has done for families, including some of my own, made a lasting impression on me,” he shares.

Now, as a trustee, Andy is keen to enhance the charity’s visibility in areas where he feels it needs greater presence—especially within the transmission and distribution sectors. “We need to reestablish our involvement and ensure that those in these industries know about the support available to them.”

Memorable Moments and Proud Achievements

When asked about his most memorable experiences with EIC, Andy finds it hard to choose just one. A standout moment was a project in Yorkshire where the committee supported a family in need. “I remember going down to help and paint their fence at the end of the project—it was such a rewarding experience.”

More recently, hosting PowerBall 2024 was a defining moment. Having previously attended as a guest, Andy gained a new appreciation for the immense effort that goes into making the event a success. “Seeing our community come together and witnessing the generosity of our supporters firsthand was truly inspiring.”

EIC’s Impact and Future Growth

EIC has played a critical role in supporting individuals and businesses within the electrical sector for 120 years, providing crucial aid to those facing hardship. Andy is passionate about ensuring this legacy continues. “We’ve been successful for the last 120 years, so let’s see what we can achieve in the next 100!”

Looking ahead, he envisions the charity expanding its reach and extending its services, ensuring even more people can benefit from its support. One initiative he’s particularly excited about is the 120-Year Campaign. “I’ve been encouraging all my colleagues and friends to take part in the abseil later this year—it’s a fantastic way to get involved and make a difference.”

The Reward of Giving Back

For Andy, the most rewarding aspect of his work with EIC is witnessing the tangible impact of its initiatives. “Through events, we see people getting excited about supporting the charity and coming together to make a difference. That’s what it’s all about.”

His advice to anyone considering getting involved? “Just do it. EIC has an incredible team, and the trustees are here to support you. Help us raise awareness and be part of something truly meaningful.”

With dedicated individuals like Andy Roach at the helm, EIC continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of those in the electrical industry—ensuring that support, generosity, and community spirit remain at its core.

I’ve been proud to support the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) for 25 years. It started with simple gestures—attending golf days or booking tables at dinners—but over time, it’s become a huge part of my life and career.

In 2017, after 30 years at Rexel, I wanted to mark my working anniversary in a way that gave back to the industry that’s given me so much. I spoke with Tessa Ogle, then CEO of the EIC, and decided it was time to do more. That’s when the idea of the Western Committee was born. With help from Steve Mace and Mick Brown, who was an incredible support, we officially launched in April 2017. Just a few months later, we hosted the first Equinox Ball.

I’ll never forget the nerves and excitement of that first event—it was a standout moment for me. The feeling of fulfilment it brought stays with me to this day.

Giving Back to an Incredible Industry

For me, being part of the EIC isn’t about representing a company—it’s about giving back to an incredible industry. The EIC does so much for us and I’ve always been inspired by the way it brings people together. You might work for a competitor, but when it comes to the EIC, we’re all on the same team. That sense of community and support is what makes our industry truly special.

As Chair of the Western Committee, one of my focuses is spreading the word to the next generation. I’m starting to see a shift in the industry, a “changing of the guard,” if you like. At the last PowerBall, I noticed a younger presence, and it was fantastic. It shows that succession planning is happening, and the industry is evolving to bring in new ideas and energy.

Mentorship and Moments That Matter

These days, I spend a lot of time coaching my team. I always tell them to understand who they are and to manage their managers effectively. Everyone is different, and recognising that can make such a difference in your career.

One moment that really stands out for me was our last Western Committee golf day, held in memory of Mick Brown. Mick was well-known and well-loved in the industry, and it was an honor to dedicate the event to him. After everyone had gone home, I sat down to write my usual post-event social media update. But this one was more about Mick than the event itself, and it hit me just how much he meant to all of us. It was such a poignant moment.

The EIC’s Growing Impact

Over the years, I’ve seen the EIC grow and evolve. One of the biggest changes is how much more awareness there is about what the charity does. It’s not just about events anymore—it’s about the real support the EIC provides to people in our industry.

The EIC has done an incredible job of breaking down the stigma around asking for help. Ours isn’t an industry where people naturally open up, but I’ve noticed more and more people feel comfortable coming forward and sharing their struggles. That’s progress.

At the Western Committee, we always make sure to highlight the support the EIC provides. Of course, we talk about the events and fundraising efforts like PowerLottery and the Challenge for a Cause, but the focus is always on the life-changing support the charity offers.

Why I Do It

People often ask me why I dedicate so much time to the EIC. For me, it’s simple: I want to give something back. I’ve been incredibly fortunate in my career, and the EIC has always been there, quietly making a difference in the background.

I tell anyone looking to support the EIC to give as much as they can, but to also take care of themselves. It’s important to understand why you’re giving—when you see the real-life impact the EIC has, it makes every effort worthwhile.

I’ll always make time for the EIC because I see the value it brings to our industry and the lives it changes. The friendships I’ve made, the moments I’ve experienced, and the difference I’ve seen the EIC make—it’s all been worth it. I’m proud to be part of something that supports the industry I love.