BITC announces record number of London workers swapping PCs for paintbrushes

Over 1,800 people will take part in the capitalís largest volunteering event, London Cares Day on May 19, marking a 50 per cent increase year on year on the number of participants,

The initiative, run by Business in the Community (BITC), encourages businesses and workers to swap their desk job and become decorators and gardeners, for a day of volunteering at schools and youth projects across the capital. The rise in volunteers highlights an increasing trend in businesses realising the social benefits of corporate social responsibility.

Now in its second year, the initiative will see over 130 projects taking place in 114 schools across 23 London Boroughs. Over 60 companies are taking part in the day, from household names such as British Gas and Eversheds to small businesses and even an army regiment.

ìWeíre excited that so many people have signed up to take part in London Cares Day,î said Steve Auckland, Chairman, London Cares Day Leadership Group and Managing Director, Metro. ìThis truly demonstrates that the people of London care about the city in which they work and want to make the Capital a place where young people can thrive. It will be a day of hard work, great fun and personal satisfaction for all involved.î

British Gas and Eversheds are sponsoring London Cares Day 2006 and will represent over 200 employees who have volunteered to take part in projects. While British Gas will be painting murals and reading to children, the Eversheds teams will be redecorating a charity outdoor centre and holding a football tournament.

London Cares Day is supported by Metro, ITV London, GREY London, Mayor of London and OCTANE PR.

Businesses who are interested in getting involved in next yearís event can register for more information at: