A NEW partnership has been created to connect charities and community groups with businesses in mid Cheshire.

Led by the Mid Cheshire Development Board, the partnership comprises Cheshire West and Chester Council and Cheshire Connect.

The aim of the partnership is to support a thriving, resilient and prosperous community by connecting charities and community groups to businesses, volunteers and funding opportunities.

Nicola Dufty, chair of the Mid Cheshire Development Board, said: “Many local businesses are keen to be involved in corporate social responsibility and this is a great way to help them do that by encouraging employees to volunteer in supporting local charities and community groups.”

Cllr Lynn Riley, Portfolio holder for Localities, added: “Businesses have a huge role to play in the community and by supporting charities and community groups they can really enrich the lives of people in the community.”

The partnership will create an independent cross-sector partnership of private, public and voluntary sector stakeholders to work together to ensure social growth and economic development in the Mid Cheshire community.

Andrea Peattie, Business Connector, Cheshire Connect, said: “Cheshire Connect is delighted to be working alongside Mid Cheshire Development Board and Cheshire West and Chester Council to make a real difference in the area.

“It is a very exciting new partnership which will actively connect the business and voluntary sectors to strengthen the community.”

Activities that are undertaken through this partnership will be celebrated and widely promoted through the badge – make a difference.