The Daily Sparkle – a dementia friendly newspaper designed to bring calm and joy to patients by helping to evoke fond memories and spark connections – was applauded for its positive social impact at the Lloyds Bank National Business Awards.
“According to the Alzheimer’s Society, there are 850,000 people living with dementia in the UK today and that figure is set to rise to over 1 million by 2025,” said Sarah Austin, Events Director.
“It’s not uncommon for news to add to our levels of anxiety, but The Daily Sparkle does precisely the opposite. It features short, snappy articles – often written using post-wartime language that older people relate better to – that trigger memories of happier times. It can really boost the patient’s self-esteem and help them feel good about themselves. And, by encouraging them to share precious memories, it’s a really lovely vehicle for them to connect and build relationships with staff and residents, and even their visiting family and friends.”
Joanna Lumley ©Steve Pope Fotowales
The Lloyds Bank Positive Social Impact award highlights the role of the private or PLC companies, often in partnership with the public and third sectors, in addressing social challenges and improving the communities in which they operate. It recognises those organisations that have achieved a meaningful and sustainable social impact through partnership, investment, pro-bono work, or through employee-led initiatives.
Daily Sparkle managing director and co-founder Christopher Harding said: “It feels fantastic to win this; it means our profile is heightened and it will help us to reach people who live in hope, which is our grand mission. Our team will be very proud of what they have done. Locally, we provide the Daily Sparkle free of charge to a lot of people such as the local charities, the local memory café and local doctors surgeries we support them all with free subscriptions.”
“We are proud of our continued sponsorship of the Lloyds Bank Positive Social Impact Award in recognition of the impact these companies are making beyond business as usual,” said Gary Lapthorn, head of responsible business, commercial banking, Lloyds Banking Group and National Business Awards judge. “Our own purpose, to help Britain prosper, recognises the positive difference we can make to people, businesses, the environment and communities across the UK.”
Naga Munchetty ©Steve Pope Fotowales
Attended by over 1,200 business leaders, entrepreneurs, politicians and journalists in celebration of the Best of British Ambition, the 17thNational Business Awards (organised by UBM) were held on 13 November at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London and presented by BBC Breakfast’s Naga Munchetty and received a keynote speech from national treasure Joanna Lumley.
The winners across all 17 categories included New Business of the Year Gas Tag and Net World Sports, winner of the Lloyds Bank SME Business of the Year. Virgin Money CEO Jayne-Anne Gadhia was named Leader of the Year.
