We took the opportunity to catch up with Stephen Mooney, who is a member of our Welfare Audit Group!

How long have you been a volunteer for the Electrical Industries Charity?

I have been a volunteer for the EIC for 3 years.

What is your volunteer role for the Electrical Industries Charity?

I volunteer for the EIC as a member of the Welfare Audit Committee. The Welfare Audit committee meet regularly throughout the year with the EIC to provide an independent assessment of the quality and effectiveness of the EIC’s support and welfare care programmes.

How did you first hear about the Electrical Industries Charity?

I can’t specifically recall when I first heard of the EIC, however it was at some point along the way during my career in electrical wholesaling. I started working for Edmundson Electrical back in 2003, and have been aware of the charity for a large proportion of my career as the EIC plays a vital role in the welfare and betterment of individuals associated with the electrical and energy industry.

What inspired you to become involved with the EIC?

I became inspired to become involved with the EIC after my own personal interaction with the charity back in November 2020, when I myself needed a helping hand up. The EIC provided this helping hand; they stepped up when I needed it the most, and I wouldn’t be the individual I am, nor would I have the life I have now, without their assistance. So like so many volunteers, when the time was right, I felt compelled to reach out and see if I could give something back by volunteering for the charity myself.

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

I suppose what resonates most with me about the EIC, their mission, and their work in the electrical industry, is just that – the EIC provides assistance to those in need within the electrical industry. An industry specific charity providing assistance to the community I work within. One diverse community, of sometimes complete strangers, working together, each playing a pivotal role, in delivering support to each other.

As a trustee, what specific goals do you hope to achieve with EIC?

As a trustee, with the guidance, help, and support of the EIC team and other WAG committee members my only specific goal is to give as much back as I can in the time I have with the EIC. Whether that be by offering friendly critique, industry knowledge, discussion, personal experiences, or by way of listening and supporting others, I know that together our input is valued, appreciated and makes a real difference to the lives of others in our industry.

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

I have so many great memories of my time with the EIC. However if I were to pick one from the many events and WAG meetings I’d pick 2021’s EIC Race Across Europe. As a team of 5, myself and four brave colleagues came together to virtually race 1606 miles across seven European checkpoints against other businesses in the industry. Suffice to say we didn’t win, but we had a blast doing it whilst raising money for the charity.

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

Quite simply the EIC has the capacity to change people’s lives for the better. I’ve witnessed this first-hand. Through support for me and my family, to the support it has offered many of my colleagues. I see individuals and businesses in our industry work together, all under the same banner, with the aim of supporting and changing our industry for the better, the EIC is a community and has become integral to our industry

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

It does concern me that when times are tough, as they are right now, people may no longer have the finances available to give charitably. However I know the EIC will continue to support our industry regardless of the economic climate we face. I also see the incredible work the EIC has done, continues to do, and I also recognise how important this is. So for me I hope the charity continues to grow within our industry. I hope everyone in our Industry becomes aware of the EIC, and in doing so, decides to support the EIC in whatever capacity they can. I hope to continue my support, through industry events, and volunteering, for as long as the EIC will allow me too!

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

I would love to have the opportunity to step away from work and family commitments temporarily to allow me to be involved in one of the EIC’s ‘Challenge for a Cause’. It’s on my bucket list and I hope everyone will support me by way of sponsorship when I get the opportunity.

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

Do it, you will never regret giving your time and support to such a worthwhile cause. It is so enriching, rewarding, and fulfilling. I guarantee it will change your life whilst changing the lives of others.

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

I’m making sure I do my bit to ensure that as many of us that can, raise that £120 or more. By fundraising, volunteering, or supporting events, I’d encourage everyone to get involved, and most importantly spread the word! Be it a company meeting, customer meeting, an industry event, or any industry venture, be sure to put the EIC at the forefront of the conversation. Together, as a community, we can make a huge difference to the future of the EIC and industry it supports.