Social Responsibility Programme
How to get involved in the Eastern City BID’s
At the Eastern City, our Social Responsibility Programme is rooted in our role as a Business Improvement District committed to creating a thriving, inclusive and sustainable urban environment.
We believe that supporting our local community—whether through wellbeing initiatives, environmental action, or social impact partnerships—not only enhances the experience of those who live, work, and visit here, but also strengthens the long-term vitality of our district. By fostering collaboration across businesses, residents and organisations, we aim to build a more connected and compassionate City for all.
Read below to find all the ways you can get involved in our Social Responsibility Programme.
Providence Row
Supporting our charity partner
The Eastern City is proud to announce a two-year partnership with local homelessness charity Providence Row, accompanied by a £100,000 funding commitment. As part of this partnership, Providence Row has been named Eastern City BID’s Charity of the Year, marking a significant step in the BID’s ongoing efforts to support vulnerable communities across the Square Mile. Providence Row works with around 1200 homeless and vulnerably housed people a year in East London, offering an integrated service of crisis support, advice, recovery and learning and training programmes. Find out more about their work at www.providencerow.org.uk
There are lot’s of ways to get involved including:
Volunteering
Volunteer your time in their kitchen, at seasonal gardening sessions, mentoring and helping to develop valuable soft skills and at workshops.
To find out more email Michael Blakesley at mblakesley@providencerow.org.uk
World Homeless Action Day 10th October 2025
World Homeless Action Day takes place every year on 10 October 2025. With those affected by homelessness rising in recent months your support is needed now more than ever. You can support Providence Row through advocacy, supporting their appeals, fundraising and more. More information on this years programme is coming soon.
Winter collection campaign
This festive period, Eastern City is calling on local businesses and offices to join us in making a meaningful impact. We’re setting up collection points for much-needed toiletries to support individuals experiencing homelessness — and we need your help.
Throughout the festive season Providence Row host a number of school choir performances which need fundraising volunteers to collect vital funds.
If your workplace would like to host a collection point or get involved, please get in touch with Claire at claire@easterncity.co.uk.
Make a donation
If you would like to make a donation please support their appeal by donating a meal for a homeless person and their dog over the winter period. You can donate here.
Action Funder Programme
Learn moreNow in its third year, the Eastern City Community Fund continues to support grassroots initiatives that make a real difference to local communities across the City of London and Tower Hamlets. With £50,000 available in 2025, the fund provides grants of up to £6,500 for projects tackling issues like mental health, poverty, youth support, culture, climate action, and homelessness. From community gardens to employment programmes, the fund has already backed a wide range of inspiring projects. Read more about it and how to get involved here.
The Lord Mayor’s Appeal
How to get involved in
The Eastern City proudly supports The Lord Mayor’s Appeal 2025. The strategic aim is to create A Better City for All that is Inclusive, Healthy, Skilled and Fair. They deliver an impact in the City that transforms lives. During 2024 in addition to funds raised for its partner charities, The Appeal’s thought leadership initiatives Power of Inclusion, This is Me, We Can Be and City Giving Day have continued to offer excellent learning, development and engagement opportunities for employees across the Square Mile and beyond.
We Can Be
Eastern City BID is proud to be supporting We Can Be, an initiative that empowers young women to see the City as a viable career option, providing them with skills and confidence through exposure to participating businesses.
City Giving Day 2025
City Giving Day, 23 September, is the one day in the year which enables businesses to come together to celebrate and showcase their charitable and volunteering achievements. Sign up for our sponsored Tour de City Static Wattbike Challenge at The Leadenhall Building.
Lord Mayor’s Show 2025
The Lord Mayor’s Show marks the election of a new Lord Mayor of London. The 2025 Show will fill up most of the City of London on Saturday 8 November between 11am and about 2pm. Keep your eyes peeled for the City BIDs float.
VOLUNTEER TO FUNDRAISE FOR THE RNLI
Eastern City BID will be holding fundraising collections in support of the RNLI, and you can get involved by volunteering your time to help with street or store collections, spreading the word, or simply making a donation—every effort helps support the lifesaving work of the RNLI. The RNLI plays a vital role in the City of London through its flood rescue work, education programmes, and support for those who live, work, and travel near the Thames.
To get involved email claire@easterncity.co.uk
SEEDL Learning Platform
Learn moreThe Eastern City are delighted to launch our new learning solution, providing all levy paying businesses and their employees access to FREE unlimited learning on a range of courses. In collaboration with SEEDL.com, now provides courses in over 250 subjects. These are accessible through live, virtual and interactive webinars to support varying working schedules. Topics include: leadership, customer service, Office365, mental wellness, communication, retail & hospitality, health & safety and more.