At The DPS, we’re dedicated to giving back to the communities in which we work, especially to people facing housing and financial challenges. That’s why in 2021, we established The Computershare Loan Services and The Deposit Protection Service Charity Fund.
Our fund supports organisations working to prevent financial and housing hardship, as well as those providing direct assistance to people with money problems or who lack secure accommodation.
Every six months we donate £2,500 to a worthy cause near each of our four offices in Yorkshire, Bristol, Derry and Sunderland for an annual total of £20,000. Charities complete an application to be considered and are chosen by a committee of representatives from each of the offices.
Ending homelessness for young people
The Charity Fund also makes a £40,000 donation to an organisation whose goals closely match those of the fund. Last year, the first recipient of this donation was Depaul UK, a youth charity working across the UK to end homelessness and change the lives of those affected by it.
Young people become homeless for a number of reasons, but the common causes are family breakdown, bereavement, mental health issues and a history of abuse. Because of this they have complex needs which require a package of bespoke support.
Taking “Steps to Success”
Depaul UK runs a national employability programme called “Steps to Success”, which equips young people aged 16 to 25 with the skills and knowledge to secure and maintain education, training or meaningful employment. The charity also runs a money management project that supports participants through financial literacy workshops and one-to-one conversations, teaching them to better navigate their finances and benefits, and opening doors to improve their education or employability.
The overall aim of the programme is to help this vulnerable group escape or avoid homelessness and achieve financial independence. When young people receive the right tools and support, they are empowered to enter adulthood on a more stable financial foundation.
We are pleased to announce the Charity Fund has voted to support Depaul’s important work for a second year.