SBT backs Hestia: a long-term partnership for sustainable growth

The Social Business Trust is proud to welcome Hestia into our portfolio of charities and social enterprises. We will back them by providing a combination of professional expertise and funding as they continue building their organisational resilience. Over the coming years, we will support their sustainable growth so they can meet the increasing demand for their essential services.

Hestia, one of the largest providers of domestic abuse refuges and mental health services in London and the South East, helps children and adults through times of crisis. They are also the foremost charity supporting victims of modern slavery in the capital.

Hestia are providing services to a growing number of people who are facing horrific challenges. Increasing numbers of adults and children are fleeing abusive homes, battling mental ill-health or addiction, or escaping from the grip of modern slavery. SBT, along with our corporate partners, are proud to be working with Hestia as they bring security and hope to the lives of people in times of crisis.

Joanne Hay, SBT Chief Executive

This long-term partnership with SBT will have a transformative effect on Hestia’s ability to provide support for those in greatest need across the capital. We know the ongoing cost-of-living crisis is making life incredibly difficult for many Londoners. The combination of professional support and an investment grant that SBT offers will enable us to develop a comprehensive strategy for the next few years, with a focus on more effectively demonstrating impact, as well as broadening and deepening that impact going forward.

Patrick Ryan, Hestia Chief Executive

Over the initial stage of the partnership, professional support and funding worth over £1 million will be provided to Hestia. Staff and executives from SBT's corporate partners will be volunteering their expertise and skills in support of the charity. Initially, Hestia will receive support in the areas of strategy, digital transformation and legal support.

The partnership with SBT will give Hestia the additional support it needs to develop its digital systems and to plan and implement its future strategy. Having access to knowhow and support from SBT’s partners will be invaluable as Hestia continues to grow its services and enhance outcomes for the individuals it serves in and around London. It’s great to be working with Patrick and the Hestia team on this vital work.

John Connolly, SBT Investment Director at Hestia and retired Partner at Clifford Chance

Last year, over 15,000 adults and children were supported by Hestia. And, informed by their work on the ground, Hestia are a strong voice for policy reform in the areas of domestic abuse, housing and immigration.

This partnership and package of support from SBT comes on the back of ongoing collaboration between Hestia and our corporate partners via SBT’s Digital Impact Fund, which is helping Hestia grow its online support for victims of domestic abuse.

Read more about Hestia here

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