Turning Corporate Social Responsibility into Real Action
Easy CSR Actions
Low-Cost CSR Ideas to Add to Your CSR Diary
Corporate Social Responsibility does not have to be expensive. Many of the most meaningful actions cost little or nothing, and they help strengthen your reputation, engage your staff, and make a real difference in your community.
Below is a list of practical ideas that any business can add to their WorktoGive CSR Diary. Each activity can be recorded with a short note, a photo, and a few details about what was achieved.
Community and Volunteering
Giving time and skills is one of the most valuable ways to demonstrate social purpose. Simple actions such as volunteering or mentoring can have a big local impact.
• Offer each employee one paid volunteering day per year to support a charity or community project
• Volunteer at a local food bank, shelter, or community café
• Lend skilled staff, such as marketing, finance, or IT professionals, to a charity for a day
• Partner with a local school or college to run career talks, mentoring sessions, or mock interviews
• Take part in community litter picks, park clean-ups, or local tree-planting events
• Join national initiatives such as the Great British Spring Clean or National Tree Week
• Offer your meeting room or workspace to local voluntary groups
• Encourage staff to take part in sponsored runs, walks, or fundraising challenges
Education and Skills
Supporting education creates long-term community benefit and positions your business as a positive local influence.
• Offer work experience placements, apprenticeships, or internships
• Mentor students or young people through schools or job centres
• Donate refurbished laptops or office furniture to schools or local charities
• Sponsor a school award, competition, or scholarship related to your industry
• Host an open day to give students an insight into your sector
Community Support and Inclusion
Strengthening community links shows genuine care for the people and places around you. These activities also help build pride among your employees.
• Source products or services locally and highlight your support for small businesses
• Partner with social enterprises for office supplies, catering, or staff gifts
• Collect donations such as food, clothes, or essentials for local families
• Join local business networks that promote ethical trade and collaboration
• Sponsor a local sports team, arts event, or community festival
• Set up a small regular donation to a local food or hygiene project
• Offer free space in your premises for local training sessions or charity events
Employee Wellbeing and Inclusion
Caring for your team is one of the most important parts of responsible business. These ideas improve morale, reduce turnover, and promote equality.
• Run a mental health awareness day or wellbeing session
• Create a small relaxation or quiet space for staff
• Introduce flexible working and equal opportunity policies
• Let employees nominate a “charity of the month” for company support
• Celebrate cultural and awareness days such as Pride Month, Black History Month, or International Women’s Day
• Provide free fruit or healthy snacks in the workplace
Digital and Awareness Actions
Online visibility helps you share your good work with a wider audience. Digital CSR also shows transparency and builds public trust.
• Share local charity campaigns on your company’s social media pages
• Publish short tips or posts about sustainability in your industry
• Add a “Giving Back” or “Our Impact” section on your website with a link to your CSR Diary
• Feature a monthly CSR highlight in your newsletters or company updates
• Use QR codes in your office, shop, or events to link to your CSR Diary
• Use your company vehicles or shop window to promote community events or local causes
Emergency and Crisis Support
Being ready to help in an emergency demonstrates compassion and responsibility. It shows that your business is part of the community fabric, not separate from it.
• Support local relief efforts during floods, fires, or weather emergencies
• Donate products, materials, or equipment to charities responding to crises
• Allow staff time off to volunteer for urgent community support
How to Record These Actions in Your CSR Diary
Recording your actions clearly ensures your CSR Diary looks authentic, professional, and credible. Use simple language and focus on outcomes.
1. Write one or two sentences explaining what happened, where, and when
2. Add one good-quality photo with a short caption
3. Include measurable details such as hours volunteered, items donated, or people reached
4. Credit any partner organisations or charities involved
5. Tag your post under themes such as community, environment, or wellbeing
Tip: Plan at least one CSR action per quarter, add smaller updates each month, and encourage staff to contribute ideas. Keeping your Diary active shows ongoing commitment and builds a powerful record of positive action.