Category: News

The Battle Nobody Could See: Pete’s Story

Content Warning: This is a true story that contains discussion of suicide, including references to suicide methods. Some readers may find this content distressing.

If you are affected by the issues raised, support is available. Contact Samaritans free, 24 hours a day, on 116 123. For medical advice, contact NHS 111. If you or someone else is in immediate danger or at risk of harm, call 999 immediately.

Pete Walker, an electrician and mental health advocate, has made it his mission to raise awareness and support others who may be struggling. He shares his story below.

As an electrician I have always struggled with anxiety, which has a huge effect on my mental health. I faced a constant battle both in and out of work. To everyone else around me at work, they probably wouldn’t have noticed that anything was up. I was just doing my job, turning up, getting on with it, solving problems and installing electrical installations to a high standard. Anxiety took over my life, at night I was worrying about the next day, the next job, the next problem. In the mornings it would ramp up even more with my mind and heart both racing, alongside a crippling sickness in my stomach. From the outside everything probably appeared ok but inside my head, things were very different. I found it easy to solve electrical problems but the problems that life brings are so much more complicated and can’t be solved by a simple fault-finding process.

For a long time, suicide felt like the solution to all of my problems. I never discussed with anyone and kept my thoughts and plans to myself. Turning 30 was the first date I had in my mind. I never really expected to live beyond that. But by the time I was 30 things had changed, by that point I had a young daughter, I had responsibilities, I had a purpose and everything changed. I just couldn’t leave her, so 30 came and went.

The problems I couldn’t solve continued both in and out of work, but I just kept on keeping on. I postponed my plans and 40 became the next date. I never expected to live that long either and it seemed a nice round number to disappear.

The strange thing about being an electrician is that you’re constantly working around things that can kill you. Electricity doesn’t give you a second chance. A mistake, a moment of inattention, the wrong decision, and that’s it. I was regularly just inches away from death and my mind played tricks. For someone struggling with suicidal thoughts, that environment can become something else entirely. I would be standing at work with these thoughts going through my head.

Remove that cover, Move that barrier, Grab that busbar.

There will be pain, but then the pain will be over.

Standing in front of the busbar, my mind would construct the story:

“ELECTRICIAN DIES FROM ELECTRIC SHOCK”

It probably wouldn’t even go down as suicide. It would go down as an accident. I would be gone but the pain would be over and for a moment, the thought of that felt like peace.

But then another thought would come into my head and something else that might sound strange to some people, but this mattered enormously to me: my reputation as an electrician. If I died in an electrical accident, people might remember me as an incompetent electrician. Someone who made a mistake. Someone who didn’t know what he was doing. For me, that was almost worse than the battle I was having with life. I had spent years building my career and being proud of what I did. I didn’t want my legacy to be that.

So, the battle continued and nobody could see it. I could be standing in a workplace surrounded by other electricians, having a completely normal conversation, while inside my head I was fighting thoughts about whether I wanted to live.

That’s one of the things I’ve learned about mental health. You don’t look ill and from the outside you look completely fine. Underneath all of that, you’re exhausted from fighting a battle that nobody else knows exists. Sometimes you’re the person making everyone laugh, you are the person that everyone relies on. You’re the person who turns up every day and gets the job done.

Self-medication became my cure, I used alcohol to ease my pain and balance my emotions, ease my anxieties, and this was the way I helped myself or at least I thought it was. It gave me an escape from my own head. It helped me switch off for a while. The problem with trying to silence your thoughts that way is that they don’t actually disappear. They’re still there when the effect wears off, and often the problems are worse.

So, I decided to pack in the drink and use other methods to try to face my battle. I reached out to counselling services, started taking ice baths, doing breathing meditations, and journalling. It seems like a lot of time to spend facing your problems, but I would do anything not to have another hangover.

I don’t tell this story because I have everything figured out now. I tell it because I know what it feels like to believe that death is the only way out. I know how easy it is to hide those thoughts from everyone around you. I’m still me. I still have difficult days. I still have thoughts and struggles, and I don’t pretend that mental health suddenly disappears because you decide to talk about it.

I feel brave enough to start talking about it now. I was suffering in silence and many more are suffering in silence too. If sharing my experience helps one person recognise the battle happening inside their own head, then everything I’ve been through has a purpose.

Especially in industries like ours, where being tough is often seen as part of the job, we solve problems easily at work, so are expected to solve problems in all areas of our life.

We look after our tools and test equipment. We isolate supplies, test for dead and follow procedures because we know what happens when we don’t. Maybe we need to start treating our mental health with the same importance because sometimes the biggest danger isn’t electricity. Sometimes it’s the battle happening inside your own head.

Pete’s journey shows that recovery is not about finding a single solution, but about taking small steps and reaching out for support. After years of struggling with anxiety and using alcohol as a way to cope, he made the decision to stop drinking in September 2023 and sought help through Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). He continues to manage his anxiety every day using ice baths, journalling and breathing meditation techniques. Earlier this year, he attended a wellness retreat in Sweden led by Wim Hof, where he joined around 200 people from different backgrounds, shared experiences and took part in activities that helped him develop a more positive outlook.

Since then, he has felt confident enough to speak openly about his mental health struggles. He has completed St John Ambulance Mental Health First Aider training and now volunteers as a Samaritan in his spare time, helping others who may be facing challenges similar to those he experienced himself. Paul knows how easy it is to hide what you’re going through, and believes many people may be carrying their own battles in silence. His message is simple: you do not have to face those struggles alone, and reaching out for help can be the first step towards recovery.

If you are struggling with your mental health and need support, contact the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC) free and confidential helpline on 0800 652 1618 or email support@electricalcharity.org. You can also contact Samaritans free, 24 hours a day, on 116 123. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or are in immediate danger, call 999 immediately.

Giving Back to the Industry: Why Chris Horne Became an EIC Ambassador

After more than four decades in the electrical industry, Chris Horne has worn many hats. From starting out as an apprentice in 1979 to working as an electrician, running his own business and later helping to shape the next generation of professionals through electrical education, his career has been defined by a commitment to supporting others.

Today, as an EIC Ambassador, Chris is continuing that mission by helping to raise awareness of the Electrical Industries Charity and the life-changing support it provides to those working across the electrical and energy sectors.

Giving Something Back

Chris first became aware of the Electrical Industries Charity through his long-standing involvement in the sector and his work in electrical education.

“I started my own journey in the industry as an apprentice in 1979, and since then I’ve worked as an electrician, run my own electrical business and spent many years teaching and supporting the next generation of electricians,” Chris says.

“During that time, I became increasingly aware of the importance of looking after the people within our industry, not just from a professional point of view but also when life doesn’t quite go according to plan. Learning more about the work of the EIC made me realise just how important the Charity is to our electrical community.”

Having spent virtually his entire working life in the industry, Chris has seen first-hand the challenges that people can face both inside and outside of work. That understanding, combined with a desire to give back, inspired him to become an EIC Ambassador.

“I’ve always enjoyed helping people,” says Chris, “whether that was as an electrician, helping a colleague, running my own business, or later as a lecturer helping apprentices and students develop their skills and start their careers, supporting people has been a big part of my working life.

Becoming an Ambassador felt like a natural next step.

“I can use the experience, knowledge and contacts I’ve built up over the years to make more people aware of the support that’s available,” he says.

“Sometimes people can be very proud and independent and don’t want to admit that they’re struggling. I want to help change that attitude and make sure people know that asking for help isn’t a weakness.”

For Chris, one of the most powerful aspects of the EIC’s work is its focus on people.

“What really resonates with me is that the EIC is there to support people when they need it most. It’s not simply about the electrical industry as a business; it’s about looking after the people who make up that industry.”

Supporting the Next Generation

Throughout his career in education, Chris has been passionate about preparing apprentices and students for successful careers. He believes support and guidance should extend beyond technical training, and this has shaped some of his proudest achievements as an Ambassador.

“One of the things I’m particularly proud of is being able to use my experience in electrical education to help raise awareness of the EIC among apprentices, students and people entering the industry,” Chris says.

“I’ve spent many years standing in front of classrooms and workshops helping young people develop their skills and prepare for a career in the electrical industry. I’ve always believed that education isn’t just about teaching somebody how to wire an installation; it’s also about preparing them for the realities of working life. Being able to introduce people to the EIC and let them know that support is available is something I consider a real achievement.”

Chris believes even the simplest conversations can have a lasting impact.

“If I’ve helped even one person find support when they needed it, then I’ve achieved something worthwhile,” he says.

That opportunity to help others remains the most rewarding part of his role.

“The most rewarding part is knowing that I can potentially make a difference.”

“The EIC provides an incredibly important service, but that service is only useful if people know it exists. So, if I can help spread that message and make somebody aware that there is somewhere they can turn to when life becomes difficult, then I feel I’m giving something back to the industry.”

Building Awareness for the Future

Looking ahead, Chris is particularly passionate about ensuring apprentices and young people entering the industry are aware of the support available from the very beginning of their careers.

“Having worked in electrical education for many years, I know how important those early years are,” he says. “We spend a lot of time teaching apprentices about regulations, safe working practices and technical skills, but I also think we should make them aware of the support available to them as people.”

“I’d like to see apprentices being introduced to the EIC early in their careers. When I visit FE colleges around the country, being part of the eFIXX College Connections team, the apprentices are informed about the EIC so that they know who to turn to if they, a colleague or a family member ever finds themselves in difficult circumstances.”

Chris also hopes to continue strengthening the links between education, employers and the wider industry.

“I think there is a real opportunity to make the EIC a familiar name to everyone working within our sector.”

Why Become an Ambassador?

For anyone considering becoming an Ambassador themselves, Chris has a simple message.

“I’d say, go for it.”

“You don’t have to be an expert in everything the EIC does,” Chris says. “What you need is a genuine desire to help people and a willingness to talk about the Charity and the support it provides.”

Above all else, Chris believes awareness is key.

“The most important thing is to get the message out there. You might speak to someone today who doesn’t need the EIC’s help, but six months or a year down the line, that person or somebody they know might desperately need support. If you can be the person who makes them aware that help is available, you’ve potentially made a life-changing difference. And I think that’s a pretty good reason to become an Ambassador.”

Chris’s story demonstrates the lasting impact that knowledge, experience and a willingness to help can have on others. Through his work as an EIC Ambassador, he is helping to ensure that more people across the electrical industry know where to turn when they need support, while continuing a lifetime commitment to helping others succeed.

Becoming an EIC Ambassador is a great way to get involved and make a difference. If you’d like to learn more about how you can get involved as an Ambassador, click here to find out more about the ways you can make a difference.

A Fond Farewell to Jess Vailima

Celebrating Jess Vailima’s eight years of dedicated service to the Electrical Industries Charity

After eight years of dedicated service, Jess Vailima has stepped away from her role as Managing Director of the Electrical Industries Charity.

Since joining the charity in 2018 and taking the helm as Managing Director in 2023, Jess has been a driving force behind the Electrical Industries Charity’s success and growth. Her dedication to strengthening and expanding engagement across the industry through training, events and support has left a lasting impact.

Jess’ leadership played a pivotal role in the success of the Charity’s landmark 120^th anniversary year. At the heart of the celebrations was an ambitious goal: to raise an additional £120,000 to support the charity’s vital work. Through determination, creativity and her ability to inspire others, Jess helped turn that ambition into reality.

A key part of the anniversary campaign was the “Join Jess” challenge series, which saw Jess lead supporters through four fundraising challenges across each of the UK’s four capital cities. The initiative brought together individuals from across the electrical and energy sectors, creating opportunities for colleagues, supporters, and industry partners to connect while raising funds for an important cause. From start to finish, Jess was at the forefront of the campaign, motivating participants and championing fundraising efforts.

Jess played an instrumental role in driving the charity’s growth, visibility, and long-term sustainability. One of her most significant achievements was the expansion of the charity’s volunteer network, helping to build a passionate and committed community of individuals dedicated to supporting our mission. Under her leadership, the volunteer base grew substantially, creating a stronger presence across the country and enabling the charity to reach and support more people than ever before.

Perhaps most importantly, her leadership helped guide the charity through a period of transformation and progress. She brought vision, determination, and a deep understanding of the needs of the community. Her ability to inspire staff, volunteers, trustees and supporters alike fostered a culture of collaboration and shared purpose that continues to define the charity today.

Beyond her strategic accomplishments, Jess will be remembered by staff, volunteers, and trustees for her infectious positivity, steady leadership, and unwavering commitment to the charity’s mission.

The EIC team would like to thank Jess for all she has achieved and wish her every success in her future endeavours. The strong foundations she has helped build will continue to guide and strengthen the Charity as we move forward, ensuring our mission and commitment to the industry remain as strong as ever.

“Our Industry is Strongest When We Support One Another”: Jaimala Parmar on Uniting for a Cause

The Electrical Industries Charity would not be able to offer the support we do without people coming together with the shared purpose of helping others.

We spoke to Jaimala Parmar, a passionate member of the Electrical Industries Charity’s West Midlands Committee about how she got involved with the EIC, and what inspires her to keep going.

The People Behind the Cause

Jaimala first became aware of the EIC through her colleagues in the industry,

“The more I learned about the work the charity does to support people facing personal, financial, and mental wellbeing challenges, the more I realised how vital its role is within our sector,” she says.

Jaimala’s inspiration to become involved with the EIC came from her strong belief in coming together to uplift the industry.

“I’ve always believed that our industry is strongest when we support one another,” she says, “the EIC provides practical help and support when people need it most, and I wanted to be part of an organisation that genuinely makes a difference to individuals and their families.”

“I’ve also been incredibly inspired by Jess Vailima and the passion, commitment and energy she brings to the charity,” Jaimala adds. “Her dedication to raising awareness, bringing the industry together and making sure people know that support is available is truly motivating.”

The inspiration Jaimala draws from those around her is clear. “Being surrounded by people who care so deeply about helping others has made my involvement with the EIC even more meaningful,” she says.

Support Through Every Stage

“What stands out is that the EIC is there for people at every stage of their lives and careers,” says Jaimala.

The Electrical Industries Charity provides support to apprentices right through to those who have retired from the industry.

Alongside this, Jaimala thinks the scope of support that the EIC offers to the industry is truly significant.

“Whether someone is experiencing financial hardship, mental health challenges, or simply needs guidance, the charity offers real support with compassion and understanding,” she says.

According to Jaimala, supporting our people is what makes our industry stronger.

“The EIC strengthens our entire industry by supporting the people at its heart. It helps individuals overcome difficult circumstances while also encouraging businesses to create a more caring, supportive, and resilient workplace culture,” she says.

An Industry Coming Together

One of Jamiala’s favourite memories has been being involved in the charity’s regional events and seeing the industry come together to support the EIC.

“From selling raffle tickets and helping raise funds on the day, to encouraging customers to attend events and bring their teams along, it was amazing to see how willing people were to get involved and support the cause,” she says.

Another recent highlight has been seeing the industry’s response to fundraising initiatives such as the upcoming EIC Day charity walk.

“I’m also really proud of the relationships we built with customers who supported our fundraising efforts, including those who donated towards initiatives like the walk in London. Seeing people from across the industry come together, not just to raise money but to show their commitment to helping others, has been incredibly rewarding. Those experiences really highlighted the generosity and community spirit that exists within our industry.”

For Jaimala, it all comes back to the people and the passion behind the charity.

“The most rewarding aspect has been working alongside passionate people who genuinely care about giving back to the industry. Seeing the positive outcomes for individuals and families reminds me why the charity’s work is so important,” she says.

Expanding Reach and Growing Support

Looking ahead, Jaimala would like to reach more industry people who need help. Expanding awareness across the industry is something she is particularly passionate about.

“I’d like to help raise awareness so that everyone working in the electrical and energy sectors knows that support is available,” she says, “I’d also like to encourage more businesses and individuals to get involved, helping the charity extend its reach and impact.”

Over the next few years, Jaimala believes the charity will continue to evolve in the services it offers.

“I see the EIC continuing to grow its services while embracing new ways of supporting people, particularly around mental wellbeing and financial resilience. I’d like to play a part in increasing awareness, building partnerships, and helping the charity reach even more people across the industry.”

Early intervention is something Jaimala is excited to focus on more in the future.

“I’m particularly excited about initiatives that focus on prevention as well as support—helping people access wellbeing resources, financial guidance, and early intervention before challenges become crises.”

Closing Words

Jaimala’s message to anyone looking to get involved with the EIC is, “don’t hesitate.”

“Whether you can give your time, share your expertise, fundraise, or simply help spread the word, every contribution matters. The EIC is built on people supporting people, and getting involved is a chance to make a genuine difference to someone’s life.”

The EIC’s Regional Committees organise and host more than 30 events each year, generating a significant proportion of the charity’s annual income. Not only do they raise much-needed funds, but they also help spread awareness of the Electrical Industries Charity and the support we provide to employees, their families and businesses.

Becoming an EIC Regional Committee member is a great way to get involved and make a difference. If you’d like to learn more about how you can get involved—whether as a volunteer, supporter, or committee member—click here to find out more about the ways you can make a difference.

Many Hands Make Light Work for Charity: James Coss on Supporting the Industry Through Tough Times

The Electrical Industries Charity wouldn’t be able to offer the support we do without the volunteers who make it happen behind the scenes. We spoke to James Coss, York Group Manager at CEF and a member of the EIC’s Yorkshire Committee, about the difference the charity makes to the industry, his proudest moments, and his hopes for the future.

Supporting the Industry Through Unprecedented Times

James first got involved with the EIC in 2019 after taking on a more senior role and gaining an understanding of the level of support the EIC can offer employees, supply partners, and customers within the industry. Seeing the support the charity provides was further outlined by some of the challenges that the pandemic that followed in 2020 brought.

“The support was phenomenal at the time,” says James. “It was a really challenging period, and being able to call on the EIC to offer additional support to employees and customers made such a difference.”

That support left a lasting impression on James and ultimately led him to join the charity’s Yorkshire Committee.

“I felt I was in a position to give back, and I saw how important it was,” he says. “It wouldn’t be right if I didn’t get involved. That’s when I discovered the regional committees.”

Bringing the Industry Together

One of James’ proudest achievements as part of the Yorkshire Committee was helping to organise a Summer Lunch event in Leeds.

“The event really outlined that our industry is about interaction and face-to-face dialogue, also about getting together and supporting one another,” James says. “That event showcased how keen people were to connect with others across different segments of the industry.”

James is currently looking forward to the upcoming Yorkshire Christmas Lunch, taking place on 11 December. The annual event brings together industry professionals from across Yorkshire to celebrate the year with food, drink and festivities.

“I’m really pleased to continue supporting the Yorkshire Christmas Lunch at the Harrogate Pavilions,” James says.

“The wider team at CEF helps support the event with raffle prizes, so facilitating that tends to be my go-to responsibility, along with raising awareness among potential new attendees.”

James also hopes to continue raising awareness of the event, particularly among contractors.

Looking ahead, James is excited about the prospect of introducing new events to the Yorkshire calendar over the coming years and is eager to bring fresh ideas to the table.

Life-Changing Support

For James, the impact the EIC has on the industry cannot be overstated.

“The EIC provides life-changing support to those who are in need,” he says.

“Some people who attend our events are surprised by the support that’s available. A lot of them have no idea that this support is in place for people like them. If you are in the industry, we’re here to support you.”

James says the most rewarding part of his work with the EIC is seeing how many people the charity supports each year.

“I’ve learned through our work that our industry has one of the highest suicide rates in the country, so helping to raise funds and provide more of a platform for people to reach out is something I’m really committed to,” James says.

“That’s the bit that really stands out to me,” he continues, “because that could be someone I know, someone I work with, who may not feel comfortable reaching out to somebody they know. When you see how much support is needed in our industry, it feels good knowing that the more we do for this charity, the more we’re able to help the people who need it.”

Looking Ahead

Over the next few years, James hopes to see even more people getting involved with the charity.

“In the future, I can see the number of people getting involved with the charity growing,” he says. “It’s about getting more people involved and being part of it.”

According to James, the more people who put their hands up to help, the greater the impact of the committee and its ability to fundraise.

“The overall workload is very minor, and when more people get involved, many hands make light work,” he says.

Beyond his committee duties, James says his next step will be to push himself out of his comfort zone by taking on a fundraising challenge.

“Let’s put myself under some duress and raise some funds,” James laughs. “I’m on the lookout for a challenge I can really sink my teeth into and raise some funds for the charity.”

James’ Advice for Future Volunteers

James’ final advice to anyone considering getting involved with the EIC is simple: “Don’t hesitate.”

“Throughout my time on the Yorkshire Committee, I’ve had so much fun and contributed to a really positive cause while doing so. It’s incredible seeing the impact that small acts of kindness can have on people who are struggling, and being able to provide a source of support for people in our industry to turn to when they need help.”

The EIC’s Regional Committees organise and host more than 30 events each year, generating a significant proportion of the charity’s annual income. Not only do they raise much-needed funds, but they also help spread awareness of the Electrical Industries Charity and the support we provide to employees, their families and businesses.

Becoming an EIC Regional Committee member is a great way to get involved and make a difference. If you’d like to learn more about how you can get involved—whether as a volunteer, supporter, or committee member—click here to find out more about the ways you can make a difference.

“You Never Know When You’re Going to Need It”: Neil Baldwin on 10 Years Supporting the EIC

Neil Baldwin is on the Electrical Industries Charity’s Yorkshire Committee and has been making a huge difference behind the scenes for 10 years.

Neil first discovered the charity at a fundraising lunch,

“10 years ago, I got invited as a guest with some customers and started to hear about and understand what the EIC was all about, Neil recalls.

Since then, he has attended EIC events up and down the country every year.

“Once I got to understand that a bit more, I got a lot more involved. The events were always a good opportunity to raise money for charity, plus it’s great for networking and having a good day out with some of your customers,” Neil says.

Neil was inspired to continue supporting the charity because, as he says, “you never know when you’re going to need it.”

“It was more about hoping you never have to use it, but knowing it’s there,” says Neil. “There aren’t many industries you work in where you’ve got a safety net of this charity that can take care of you and your family when some of the worst things can happen to you. Why wouldn’t I want to do that?”

Supporting People Across the Industry

What resonates most with Neil is the EIC’s mission to support people across the industry.

“I think you have things that can happen in your life, whether it’s your child getting sick, or your wife, or getting made redundant,” Neil says. “So many people live month to month that suddenly you’re into a world of pain, especially if there’s a lot of other people being made redundant, because then the job market’s tough. So this charity and what it offers is a really big thing.”

“It’s a worthwhile thing to put your time into,” says Neil. “If I fall down the stairs and break my leg today, suddenly I’m going to need the charity.”

The Cause Behind the Challenges

Neil’s proudest achievement to date was taking part in the Challenge for a Cause trek to Machu Picchu in 2023.

“That was a bucket list thing to do whilst raising a lot of money for the charity,” he reminisces, “it was phenomenal. I’m eager to do another one when the right event comes up.”

In the meantime, Neil is looking forward to taking part in the EIC Day celebrations in September.

Neil’s “why” is rooted in the stories he hears from friends and colleagues who have received support from the charity.

“When you hear those stories, whether it’s sickness or mental health, you can suddenly understand what we do this all for,” says Neil.

“People say it’s made a massive impact on their life, and that makes me really happy. because that’s exactly why you’re doing it – so people can get help when they desperately need it.”

The Invisible Struggle

Looking to the future, Neil wants to see more people getting involved with the charity at both a regional and national level.

He also hopes to raise greater awareness among businesses in the industry that the charity may already be supporting more of their employees than they realise.

“People are very good at putting on a facade of normality, even when their lives are falling to pieces,” he says.

“In our industry, we’ve got divorce twice the national average, suicide twice the national average, and the prevalence of gambling addiction and substance addiction, so it’s going to be a much bigger number than you think it is.”

Neil believes that by speaking to businesses and making them aware of the support available to employees, these issues can be addressed earlier.

Neil’s Words of Advice

To anyone considering joining a regional committee, Neil says that giving up even a small amount of time can make a powerful difference.

“I’ll just say if you’re going to do it, do it, you know, commit. It’s not a lot of time. You know, we have committee meetings every couple of months. It doesn’t take long,” he says.

“Put yourself in the position of somebody who needs it, but there wasn’t the funding available there to support them. Imagine if that were you,” says Neil. “And by just giving up a little bit of your time and your efforts, you can make a difference in people’s lives in a positive way.”

“Committees work best when everyone on the team is fully invested in being there, showing up and making a difference. Nobody wants a team member who is only there on paper, so I would encourage everyone to get involved, and stay involved, attending the Committee meetings alongside the events, it is truly a rewarding and enriching experience.”

After a decade of dedication, Neil Baldwin continues to champion the Electrical Industries Charity with the same passion that first inspired him at a fundraising lunch 10 years ago. Through fundraising events, committee work and raising awareness of the support available, he has helped strengthen a safety net that many people in the industry may one day rely on.

The EIC’s Regional Committees organise and host over 30 events each year, generating a significant proportion of our annual income. Not only do they raise much-needed funds, but they also help spread awareness of the Electrical Industries Charity and the support we provide to employees, their families, and businesses.

Becoming an EIC Regional Committee member is a great way to get involved and make a difference. If you’d like to learn more about how you can get involved—whether as a volunteer, supporter, or committee member—click here to find out more about the ways you can make a difference.

Volunteers’ Week: Celebrating Our Incredible Volunteers

 

As Volunteers’ Week returns from 1 – 7 June, the Electrical Industries Charity is shining a spotlight on the hundreds of volunteers whose dedication helps raise vital funds, support colleagues in crisis, and strengthen communities across the UK electrical and energy industries.

Who are the volunteers behind the Electrical Industries Charity?

Regional Committees:

The Electrical Industries Charity’s Regional Committees organise and host over 30 events throughout the year. Last year, they generated 28% of the Charity’s income. Not only do they help generate much-needed funds, but they also raise awareness of the Electrical Industries Charity and our ability to support employees, their families, and businesses across the industry.

There are currently 14 regional committees that plan and host incredible events across the country each year. They cover the regions of East Midlands, Eastern, London, North West, Northern Ireland, Scotland, South Coast and Isle of Wight, South West, Southern, North East, Wales, West Midlands, Western, and Yorkshire.

If you’d like to support one of our regional committees, consider attending one of their fundraising events. These events aren’t just gatherings; they’re opportunities to unite, network and shed light on the challenges and opportunities within the electrical industry.

Board of Trustees:

The Board of Trustees governs the Electrical Industries Charity. The Board meets a minimum of four times a year to deliver the organisation’s aims and objectives, while setting strategic direction and policy to uphold its mission, vision, and values.

Emerging Professionals Board:

The Emerging Professionals (EP) Board is made up of talented individuals from across the industry with less than 10 years’ experience.

The purpose of the EP Board is to support key projects that help the Charity achieve its objectives. Members gain valuable insight into charity management and strategic leadership while taking on meaningful leadership responsibilities.

The Board meets four times a year and attends Trustee meetings annually to present key initiatives that the Charity will undertake throughout the year.

Finance Working Group:

This subgroup oversees the systems, controls, and processes that may impact the Charity’s ability to meet its objectives.

The Finance Working Group reports to the Council on matters relating to financial responsibilities, including financial risk management. Its remit includes budgeting and financial performance, internal financial controls, financial reporting and external audit, reserves and investments, and IT strategy.

Welfare Audit Group:

This subgroup provides independent assessment of the quality and effectiveness of the Electrical Industries Charity’s welfare care programmes.

Patron:

We are honoured to have Stuart Pearce as our Charity’s Patron.

Before becoming a household name in football, Stuart began his working life as an apprentice electrician with Brent Council, later running his own business. Even as his football career took off at Coventry City F.C. and Nottingham Forest F.C., he continued working as an electrician, famously advertising his business in matchday programmes.

His experience in the trade gives him a deep understanding of the industry and the people we support.

“I have a real appreciation for the hard work and dedication of those in the electrical and energy industries. I know firsthand the challenges that can come with the job, which is why I’m so passionate about supporting the incredible work that EIC does. The charity provides vital assistance to those who need it most and I’m excited to play a part in helping to raise awareness and ensure that no one in our industry faces any hardship alone,” says Stuart.

Ambassadors:

Ambassadors are people who commit their time to raising awareness of the EIC. They support with various things, including inspiring people to fundraise, signing people up for the powerLottery, sharing our messages on social media, and encouraging their companies to support us.

Our Ambassadors meet with the EIC team every quarter to catch up and share their ideas. Helping their industry’s charity and in turn, their colleagues and peers is what motivates our ambassadors and gives them a sense of personal achievement.

Industry Impact

At a time when many workers across the electrical and energy sectors continue to face financial, mental health and workplace challenges, volunteers play a critical role in ensuring support reaches those who need it most.

“Our volunteers are the backbone of everything we do, “says Jess Vailima, Managing Director of the Electrical Industries Charity, “From organising fundraising events to shaping our governance and future strategy, their expertise and generosity make an extraordinary difference to our Charity and across our industry.”

If you would like to get involved, whether through volunteering, fundraising, or attending an event, you can learn more here.