Bentley significantly increased its investment in community schemes across the UK in 2023, supporting over 320 charitable donations and projects, a 150% increase from the previous year. This investment is part of Bentley’s Beyond100 strategy, which aims to make a positive impact on communities. The new Advancing Life Chances strategy has guided Bentley’s efforts to expand its community investment footprint.

Bentley has been supporting initiatives in Crewe, where it is headquartered, for many years. In 2023, Bentley worked with the Cheshire Community Foundation (CCF) through the CCF Crewe Fund and the Bentley Advancing Life Chances Crewe Fund. A new program, the Bentley Crisis Fund, was also launched in collaboration with CCF. Additionally, the Advancing Life Chances (ALC) investment program, developed with the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), allowed Bentley to expand its community investment across the UK.

Key highlights of Bentley’s community investment projects in 2023 include:

• Advancing Life Chances Small Grants program: Bentley provided donations of up to £500 to 200 charities and community groups across the UK, benefiting over 27,000 people.
• Advancing Life Chances Crewe Fund: In partnership with CCF, Bentley supported 10 projects in Crewe, benefiting 7,565 people. For example, the ‘Pennysmart’ charity managed £232,836 of debt for 119 households in Crewe.
• Bentley Crisis Fund: Through the Bentley Forever Crewe Endowment Fund, 82 individuals in Crewe received support from four local charities.
• CCF Crewe Fund: Supported by Bentley and other Crewe businesses, this fund benefited nine charities, with projected beneficiaries totaling 2,342 people.
• Fundraising Support: Bentley offered various initiatives, such as Factory Tours, Goody Bags, Match Funding, and Payroll Giving, which benefit charities and colleagues and generate funds for the community.

Sally Hepton, Director of Government Relations and Sustainable Luxury at Bentley Motors, emphasized the importance of actively participating in the local community. At the same time, Michael McDermott, Senior Advisor of Government Relations and Sustainable Luxury Bentley Motors, highlighted the positive impact of the ALC program nationwide.

Bentley’s commitment to investing in community schemes reflects its dedication to making a difference in people’s lives and supporting a better future for all.