A CHARITY is calling for businesses to help improve the lives of people with learning disabilities.

Heart of England Mencap is calling on employers to let their staff volunteer during the working day.

The charity is contacting companies across Worcestershire in the hope of securing sponsorship and corporate support.

Cath Errington, fundraising manager, said: “We focus on an individual’s abilities and not their disabilities and that’s at the heart of everything we do.

“As a charity we are limited by money and resources and what we are saying to local companies is ‘could you help us to do even more in your community?’

“That could be by donating funds, services, goods or volunteers – and you’ll be making a very real difference to local lives.”

Companies who supported Heart of England Mencap in 2016 include National Grid, Vodafone and Santander.

Over 200 people across Worcestershire and Warwickshire receive help from the charity, through residential care and learning activities.

In the past employees have helped to organise Christmas parties and create garden spaces.

To find out more about getting involved, contact Cath Errington on 01789 298709 or email cerrington@heartofenglandmencap.org.uk