Supporting local charities is an important part of local Institute work, encouraging members to give their time or donate funds to improve local services.
This year, the Insurance Institute of Newcastle's president Katy Thorne, Chartered Financial Planner, from Gale and Phillipson, chose to support The Percy Hedley Foundation, which provides a wide range of specialist care and education support to disabled people and their families.
Ms Thorne took a trip to the charity's site in Longbenton earlier this month, to present a cheque for more than £1,000, raised by guests at the Institute's annual dinner. She was joined by Dave Robson, the Institute's charities representative and David Gunning, council member.
A tour of the facility revealed how the foundation meet the needs of disabled people with cerebral palsy, communication impairments, sensory impairments and complex learning, social care and therapeutic needs. Ongoing projects include employability initiatives with local businesses and respite care for all ages.