Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce has announced the finalists for the Responsible Business of the Year category at the 2025 Staffordshire Chambers Business Awards.
Sponsored by Rydale Roofing, this award recognises businesses and charities demonstrating strong social responsibility, community engagement and ethical practices across Staffordshire.
The finalists are:
Hanley Economic Building Society
Founded in 1854, Hanley Economic Building Society focuses on serving Staffordshire with savings and mortgage products. In April 2024, it launched the Hanley at Home Fund in partnership with the Community Foundation for Staffordshire and Shropshire, providing grants to local charities supporting independent living, housing stability, and financial literacy. The Society also encourages employee volunteerism, surpassing its target of 170 volunteer days in 2024 to mark its 170th anniversary, with activities supporting vulnerable groups and conservation projects across Staffordshire.
Wavemaker
Wavemaker works to bridge the digital divide in Staffordshire by delivering free digital skills training to underserved groups, including job seekers, older adults, and individuals with disabilities. The organisation has trained over 10,000 individuals through 2,000 workshops and distributed thousands of digital devices. Wavemaker also trains NHS Digital Champions and community leaders to embed digital inclusion in local services, with ongoing plans to expand programmes and promote sustainable digital access.
Alice Charity
Alice Charity aims to break the cycle of poverty by providing tailored support to families across Stoke-on-Trent and Newcastle-under-Lyme. In 2024, it supported over 9,200 children and families, delivering nearly 11,000 meals and facilitating thousands of volunteer hours. Its programmes include food banks, educational resources, advocacy, and mentoring, addressing social isolation and financial hardship. Alice Charity plans to expand services to further reduce inequalities and support family self-sufficiency.
Midlands Air Ambulance Charity
Operating from three Midlands airbases, Midlands Air Ambulance Charity provides critical emergency medical care. Between April 2023 and March 2024, 28% of its Staffordshire missions occurred in Stoke-on-Trent. The charity also launched a Patient Liaison Service in 2024 to support patients and families after traumatic incidents and works closely with local businesses through a network of Business Ambassadors. It relies entirely on donations and remains one of the busiest air ambulance services in the UK.
The winner will be revealed at a spectacular gala dinner taking place at Uttoxeter Racecourse on 10th July 2025, where local business leaders and community representatives will gather to celebrate excellence in responsible business.
