Charity of the Year 2024 Celebration

Colleagues at firmus energy networks have joined forces to raise £17,000 for Dementia Northern Ireland – our official charity partner for 2024.

Dementia NI is a leading local charity that continues to provide hope and empowerment to those living with the condition in Northern Ireland and helps give people with dementia a voice.

Charity representatives were invited to firmus energy networks’ head office where Niall Martindale, the energy company’s Chief Executive Officer, made a cheque presentation. They were joined by some of those from the company’s CSR Committee.

Between January and December last year, a range of fundraisers were organised – from themed events to one-off competitions – including a UEFA European Football Championship sweepstake, a staff table tennis tournament, and several special Christmas activities, which included engineering a festive sandwich.

Daring members of firmus energy networks team also conquered their fear of heights by taking part in a charity abseil, with a separate group putting on their running shoes to complete the Belfast Marathon. Individual’s culinary skills were also tested during a Bake-Off contest.

Niall said, “Dementia NI performs incredible work, and we were pleased to have them as our official charity partner for 2024. They provide vital, peer support for people diagnosed with dementia through their network of empowerment groups and their ‘In the Same Boat’ service. They support their members, who all have a diagnosis of dementia, to raise awareness and help tackle the misconceptions that still exist about dementia. Demand for the services it provides remains high – and that is only expected to grow further due to rising dementia cases.”

He added: “firmus energy networks is always proud to play a part supporting people and communities, and I have every confidence that this donation will be used to power areas that are most critically important to delivering help and support for those with dementia.”

This year marks the tenth anniversary of Dementia NI, which was founded by a group of just five people who believed that those diagnosed with dementia could – and should – play an active role in shaping services and altering public perception about the condition.

Support from companies like firmus energy networks is imperative to Dementia NI’s on-going success, with fundraising ensuring it can expand its reach and develop new ideas.

Karen Kerr, Head of Engagement at Dementia NI added, “We want to thank and recognise firmus energy networks for their amazing support in 2024 and the impact they have made for people living with dementia,” adding: “Reaching this milestone is a testament to the strength, resilience and determination of our members.”

In the next few weeks, firmus energy networks will announce its official charity partner for 2025.