Evenlode think deeply about its responsibility to its clients’ wealth. It also believes it has a duty to the world beyond its offices, that extends both locally and to wider society.
It takes those duties very seriously and is always looking at ways in which it can help various charitable organisations. Since November 2017, the Evenlode office has raised almost £10,000 for a range of good causes including World Bicycle Relief, Breast Cancer Now and Women’s Aid.
Earlier this year members of the team rode from London to Paris to raise money for World Bicycle Relief. One of the riders, portfolio manager Ben Peters reports:
“It wasn’t all plain sailing as the support vehicle was broken into and one of the riders ended up in hospital after a bad accident. However, despite some bumps along the way we completed the challenge and raised almost £2000.”
Evenlode is also fortunate enough to be able assist a little closer to home. It supported the Chipping Norton Scout troop with the refitting of their scout hut. It also had the opportunity to support the outstanding Oxfordshire-based stalwarts, SpecialEffect, a charity which uses video games and technology to enhance the quality of life of people with disabilities.
Supporting British innovation
Evenlode also aims to support innovation, long-termism and better stewardship across the UK economy. On this front, it has partnered with The Oxford Trust in launching a Science Park at Stansfield Park.
Portfolio manager, Hugh Yarrow says the Park will provide an innovative hub for start-ups:
“We see this as a very exciting development that provides a home for start-up companies, as well as an education centre for local schoolchildren (link to article). We will be getting our hands dirty at one of their volunteer days this year, helping to improve the outside space for an “indoor/outdoor education centre.”
Evenlode’s charity work is also intertwined with a larger goal. As part of The Oak Investment Partnership it aims to raise £1 million over the next decade.
Improving transparency
The firm is also working within the fund management industry to affect positive change for underlying investors. Ben Peters’ recent invitation to join the steering group of the FRC’s Financial Reporting Lab is an opportunity to improve the way in which businesses interact with the general public and broader stakeholders.
Ben Peters believes it important to drive better transparency within the industry:
“I look forward to contributing towards the Financial Reporting Lab’s innovative work in creating more transparent, engaging and pragmatic solutions in company reporting. I have been involved in past consultations and it is great to be a member of the steering group, in part because investors are a little under-represented in this discussion."
