Published 23 April 2025     More in

“We feel it’s really important to give back to a charity in the area”

Amy Hickman, Marketing and Business Development Director, Clarkson, Wright & Jakes

When it comes to supporting people in South East London, Orpington solicitors Clarkson Wright & Jakes and St Christopher’s can both claim some serious heritage.

It’s those deep-rooted local ties that now see the 70-strong firm that moved to Orpington from central London in 1951, championing St Christopher’s (founded in 1967) as its chosen charity for a two-year partnership.

“that genuine local connection makes a real difference”

As Amy Hickman, the firm’s Marketing and Business Development Director, explains: “Every two years we choose a different charity to support. We like to pick a local one as we can make a positive  impact on our community and there is more of a connection.”

Amy researches local charities and then presents a shortlist to the management committee. When St Christopher’s visited their offices last September it quickly became clear a number of staff members had a connection to the hospice.

“We feel it’s really important to give something back to a charity in the area and a number of our clients have had family members who’ve been looked after by the hospice and that genuine local connection makes a real difference.”

Amy Hickman at Fun Walk with Liam Cahalin who leads our Corporate Partnerships programme

Clarkson Wright & Jakes has already raised more than £3,000 for St Christopher’s through generous client donations and a number of different fundraisers including a staff quiz, a crazy hair day and a Christmas raffle. Amy and her colleagues also volunteered and participated at the St Christopher’s Fun Walk in May.

With Clarkson Wright & Jakes celebrating the firm’s 150th anniversary in 2025, the staff  are busy planning a range of fundraising events, including a sporting event  and a Bake-Off competition which they hope will include several other local businesses.

With a dedicated Just Giving page, colleagues and clients can keep up to date with the fundraising activities.

Amy and a group of colleagues recently visited St Christopher’s to get a better understanding of where the money they raise will be spent.  She hopes, depending on availability, there’ll be opportunities for volunteering at the hospice too.

“The whole place gave off such a happy, calm and cheery vibe, so different to what we were all expecting.”

Team morale and client engagement are just two of the benefits Amy cites for being a St Christopher’s corporate supporter.

“It’s good for the soul and really brings the team together to know that we’re working together for a lovely hospice.”

Clarkson Wright & Jakes visit Sydenham

“I think if a business wants to make an impact this is a great way to make a difference, meet different people and come together for a good cause.”

If you’d like to discuss a corporate partnership, talk to Alex Adie on 0208 768 4446 or email a.adie@stchristophers.org.uk

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