Across the investment industry, Environment, Social and Governance issues have never been more important.
At River Capital, we believe that we and the companies we invest in should behave responsibly towards the environment and society. We look to promote both ESG behaviour and Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) in both our own business and that of our portfolio businesses.
We have taken a number of proactive steps to further these objectives including:
• We are focused on reducing our carbon footprint with a view to achieving net zero as soon as possible. In conjunction with John Moores University and its Eco-I programme, we continue to work to develop net zero policies such as green travel, use of ultra low emission vehicles and use of digital solutions to manage our carbon footprint.
• We have internally appointed ‘champions’ in the field of both ESG and D&I to drive focus on these key areas.
• We have adopted schemes to support both ‘Ultra Low Emission Vehicles’ and ‘cycle to work’ schemes for staff.
• We are a signatory to the Investing in Women Code which aims to improve female entrepreneurs’ access to tools, resources and finance, supporting diversity and inclusion in access to finance,
• All our office furniture is sustainably sourced and energy suppliers committed to ‘green energy solutions’.
• In our technology investments, we are focused on supporting businesses providing a deliberate positive impact through the use of ‘technology for good’.
• We actively work with local schools and universities to develop future talent by offering work experience programmes for students.
We look favourably on businesses that demonstrate social value in the conduct of their business, for example:
• Connect with a secondary school and / or college to help inspire and inform the next generation about careers e.g. Give an Hour campaign
• Develop skills and training plans that include an apprenticeship scheme
• Offer training to low paid staff to help them up-skill and progress
• Offer work opportunities and experiences to local people with disabilities or health issues
• Provide sustainable green travel ways for employees to travel for business and to commute to work
• Undertake an efficiency audit to identify ways to reduce waste and lower energy and water consumption
• Undertake a supply chain audit to identify opportunities to buy more from local suppliers
Corporate Partnership – National Museums of Liverpool
In 2024 we begun a partnership with National Museums of Liverpool.
This partnership reflects our commitment to ensuring that access to arts and culture remains open, inclusive, and impactful for everyone across the Liverpool City Region and ensures that all aspects of the city continue to prosper.
As we continue to expand our presence into Manchester, Lancashire, and Cumbria, we remain deeply proud of our Merseyside roots and this partnership allows us to pay homage to where we began and support one of the many institutions that makes our region so special.
Sponsorship of Pex Hill JFA
In 2024 we entered into sponsorship agreement with Pex Hill JFA, becoming the naming partner of two under 10 girls teams. As well as contributing financially to the team, River Capital has shown its commitment by supporting the girls during tournaments and joining them on a walk up Moel Famau where they donated proceeds to Claire House.
Commitment to Charitable Giving
At River Capital we are committed to supporting local charities such as Clatterbridge House, Claire House and The Whitechapel Centre though fundraising initiatives like dragon boat racing, charitable walks and annual food drives.