AN INVESTMENT management firm is marking its 145th anniversary by making a huge gesture of support to the Samaritans.

Redmayne Bentley’s anniversary coincides with International Volunteer Day which this year falls on December 5. In recognition of that, and the struggles many are facing due to COVID-19, the company is to fund the training and support of 145 Samaritans volunteers.

Head of Office and Investment Manager at the Redmayne Bentley Ilkley office, Simon Flather, said: “Over the years we have celebrated the firm’s heritage but importantly this year we want to recognise that 2020 has been an extremely difficult and challenging year for many.

“We have chosen to support the Samaritans as they offer support for anyone who’s in need, whenever they need it.

“More than ever this year, we have been mindful of the importance of positive mental wellbeing for our colleagues, our clients and their families and our wider community, and our main focus during this pandemic has been the safety and wellbeing of our teams, clients and their loved ones.

“We may not currently be able to meet one another face to face, but thanks to modern technology we are able to keep connected, collaborate, and check in on each other.”

Reflecting on the pandemic and the firm’s 145-year milestone, he added: “We are fortunate that we have been able to adapt with relative ease and continue to maintain the delivery of high standards of client service - which was set out by the firm’s founder from all those years ago and continues to set us apart.”

The celebration of the firm’s big anniversary follows on from celebrations its Ilkley office held last year to mark its 15th year.

Corporate Account Manager for the Samaritans, Sam Gale, said: “Thank you so much to everyone at Redmayne Bentley for this wonderful donation. Your support is more important than ever.” The Samaritans provides emotional support to anyone who is in distress. For more details visit https://www.samaritans.org/