Ecclesiastical Insurance has joined the National Emergencies Trust (NET) Appeal Partners Programme, strengthening efforts to provide rapid and effective support to those affected by national crises.
The partnership brings together organisations that share a commitment to supporting communities during emergencies. According to a news release, as an appeal partner, Ecclesiastical will contribute its specialist risk management expertise to help the Trust maximise the impact of its nationwide fundraising appeals.
Ecclesiastical, a specialist insurer with a history of supporting communities through both insurance services and charitable initiatives under its owner Benefact Group, is expected to play a key role in mobilising resources and expertise when disasters occur. The insurer’s enterprise risk management team will assist organisations in identifying and mitigating strategic risks to enhance resilience during crises.
“Cross-society collaboration is vital during emergencies. It means efforts aren’t duplicated, resources are applied effectively and, most importantly, that those affected receive the best possible care,” said Mhairi Sharp, CEO of the National Emergencies Trust. “The Appeal Partners Programme helps to facilitate that collaboration, so we’re delighted that Ecclesiastical is joining as our newest member. Their networks and specialist expertise will make a huge difference when it’s needed most.”
Sarah Pearson, head of enterprise risk at Ecclesiastical, emphasised the importance of the collaboration: “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to supporting communities through times of urgent need. We hope an emergency situation doesn’t arise, but when it does, we clearly want to play our part. By sharing our risk management expertise with the National Emergencies Trust, we can help to strengthen the resilience of communities across the UK.”
The partnership comes at a time when the UK’s emergency services face significant challenges. Police forces in England reported average response times of five and a half hours for priority calls—those requiring urgent attention without immediate risk to life. Gloucestershire Police experienced the most significant delays, averaging 18.5 hours for such calls. Meanwhile, fire services also saw response times rise, with the national average reaching nine minutes and 12 seconds—the highest in a decade.
The National Emergencies Trust’s Appeal Partners Programme unites trusted organisations to ensure aid reaches those in need efficiently and effectively during times of crisis.
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