In October, three eager teams from JN Bentley were bundled blindfolded into vehicles and dropped 20 miles from their head office – all to raise funds for their charity of the year, the Lighthouse Charity.
Previously, the company had received a visit from our #MakeItVisible team who deliver hard-hitting wellbeing talks on site. Such was it’s success, when it came to deciding their 2025 charity of the year, the vote was unanimous.
‘Race to the Office’ was the fourth fundraiser held across the year and was one of the most popular. The innovative idea piqued the interest of employees and soon nine keen entrants from apprentices to directors were signed up to take part.
On the day, the three teams were dropped off blindfolded in Cannock, Shrewsbury or Wombourne, each with £20 and an emergency phone. The objective was to get back to their head office in Shifnal before their opponents.
The teams had to think on their feet and fuelled with adrenaline, participants set about figuring out their location and coming up with a plan. They faced hiccups, missed trains and dramatic sprints, all accompanied by laughs and a good dose of team spirit.
Molly Shaw, SHEQ Advisor and race participant said, “We were dropped off and were all looking around thinking, ‘Where am I?’ Luckily for my team, I knew exactly where I was! The adrenaline kicked in and there was a bit of running, some power-walking, and politely asking people if they would give us a lift.
“Luckily, one of the companies we work with, FDG Ltd were able to help and managed to give us a lift to the office. We crossed the finish line like lightning and patiently waited for the other teams to arrive, we felt like champions!”
With some well placed hitchhiking, the glory went to Team 1. There was a hero’s welcome waiting for the winners, with cheering, clapping and celebratory drinks.
The fundraiser was JN Bentley’s last of the year, which included a bike ride, a golf day and a Peaky Blinders themed ball. Their efforts overall raised an incredible £19,476, which, combined with their annual donation of £10,000, makes them truly deserving of their place on Lighthouse’s Wall of Fame.
Sophie Naylor, Lead HR Advisor at JN Bentley said, “We’re proud to be a Company Supporter of the Lighthouse Charity and the brilliant work they do within the construction industry. We actively encourage our employees to engage with the charity, whether that’s through fundraising, attending talks, signposting support or reaching out for help. Our work with the Lighthouse Charity aligns with our focus on mental, physical and financial wellbeing for our employees and wider supply chain.”
We’d like to offer a huge thank you and congratulations to everyone at JN Bentley for their incredible efforts this year. Your contribution will help to facilitate life changing services for those in our construction community.
