West Lothian firm rewarded for charity work

Dec 31 2008 by Alistair Watson, West Lothian Courier

A WEST Lothian business has been rewarded for its charitable work.

Atos Origin, an international IT services company in the county, has been rewarded for putting something back into the community through its environmental and charitable initiatives.

The company’s Livingston office, which employs 280 staff, was ‘Highly Commended’ in the Best Business category of the West Lothian Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards 2008.

The awards are the biggest celebration of business achievement in West Lothian.

They showcase the talent, drive, commitment and successes of local businesses.

The awards also recognise corporate social responsibility and charitable initiatives by the firms.

Atos Origin was recognised for its work with the Sunndach Children’s Respite Home in Eliburn, Livingston, just a short distance from the company’s offices.

Sunndach provides care for disabled children and young people with complex nursing needs.

Green-fingered volunteers from the company have devoted two hours of their time each month to maintain a sensory garden for the children, providing a peaceful place for the residents and their families.

Sunndach is supported by the Sick Kids Friends Foundation, which is Atos Origin’s chosen charity across its Livingston and Edinburgh offices.

Over £4000 has been raised since March 2008 through a calendar of quiz nights, dress down Fridays, raffles and social events all of which have been greatly supported by staff.

Some staff have participated individually in events such as the Edinburgh Marathon, ‘Teddy Toddle’ at Meadowbank and their own children’s parties.

Steve Langmead, Vice President - Scotland at Atos Origin, said: “It is important for Atos Origin to be recognised as an excellent business and a responsible employer.

“Through offering support to local businesses and charities we hope that we are successfully giving something back to the local community and we look forward to continuing these efforts into 2009.”

Maureen Harrison, Chief Executive of the Sick Kids Friends Foundation, said:

“The staff at Sunndach are delighted with the charitable work done by Atos Origin volunteers.

“They have been a great help setting up and maintaining the garden which will be well used in 2009. It’s really appreciated when businesses offer this sort of contribution, especially when it means donating precious time.

”Atos Origin is a fantastic organisation to have in the area both in terms of employment and what they give back to the local community.”

THE WINNERS: Livingston company Atos Origin picked up a Highly Commended in the Best Business category of the West Lothian Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards 2008.