On the 13th March 2023, Shire Leasing proudly sponsored and hosted the Leasing Foundation’s ‘Time to Talk’ event. Our CFO and Leasing Foundation Board member, Helen Lumb, helped to organise the event, in conjunction with co-sponsor Shoosmiths, for over 60 peers from across the Business Finance industry who joined on the evening.
The ‘Time to Talk’ event focused on mental health, diversity, inclusion and staff wellbeing within the asset finance industry. Once all guests arrived, the evening kicked off with a Q&A panel discussion from Nova Everidge (Metro Bank), Lee Rhodes (Aldermore Bank), Laura Roberts (Liberty Leasing LTD) and Robert Harris, Melanie Chell (Equivo/Shoosmiths) and of course our very own Helen Lumb, a Leasing Foundation Board member responsible for leading the Diversity and Inclusion channel.
The panel shared their workplace stories and experiences, sparking plentiful food which created a good conversation starter for the short break which followed after. Attendees enjoyed tea, coffee and cake whilst they spoke amongst each other in reflection of the panel, as well as speaking of their own challenges with wellbeing and mental health.
After the short break, Shire Leasing sponsee, motivational speaker and world record breaker, Steve Cunningham took to the stage to share his inspiring life story and how he has gone on to break barriers as a blind man since losing his eyesight at the age of 12. Steve’s guest talk was truly invigorating, resulting in a massive round of applause.
The evening concluded with food, drinks and a greatly engaging networking session for all of the asset finance industry guests who attended.
Mental health issues can affect one in four people at some point in their lives and have a significant impact on employee wellbeing. It was amazing to see so many industry peers coming together to challenge mental health stigma and have open conversations on how to implement best practice. Shire Leasing are glad be a part of these industry conversations that are helping to break down stereotypes around mental health and are proud to be supporting a more inclusive and diverse workplace.
