Bachy Soletanche is proud to continue its commitment to social value by supporting three remarkable charities through the VINCI UK Foundation – an initiative dedicated to strengthening social cohesion and empowering communities across the UK.
In 2025, the company is funding and supporting projects that address digital inclusion, youth engagement, and outreach capacity, they are:
- Compassion Acts received £5,000 to upgrade IT equipment, enhancing digital access and enabling more effective support services for vulnerable individuals.
- Leyland Playscheme was awarded £7,000 for sports equipment, encouraging children to stay active, healthy, and socially connected.
- Lancashire Youth Challenge benefited from £5,200 to train staff in minibus operations, reducing transport costs and expanding their reach to more young people.
What sets this support apart is the hands-on involvement of Bachy Soletanche employees. Beyond financial contributions, staff volunteer their time, skills, and energy to help these charities thrive. This active participation helps foster stronger relationships within the communities in which our teams operate. As these projects continue to grow, Bachy Soletanche looks forward to the lasting change they will bring in 2025 and beyond.
The VINCI UK Foundation, established in 2016, has donated nearly £1.8 million to 289 charities and community projects to date. Each initiative is sponsored by a VINCI employee who commits their time and skills over a 12-month period, ensuring that support is both financial and personal.
Commenting on Bachy Soletanche’s involvement, Caz Sumner said: “It’s fantastic to see the continued support of charities and organisations across the country. As a sponsor and VINCI UK Foundation co-ordinator for Bachy Soletanche, it is rewarding to be able to make a real difference to the communities we work in. The volunteering aspect, enables our employees to work closely with the charities and understand the beneficial impact they have on the people and families they support.”
Compassion Acts
Compassion Acts is a Southport-based charity dedicated to reducing poverty and enhancing wellbeing across Southport and Formby. It provides emergency food through Southport Foodbank, long-term support via Food Pantries, and expert advice on debt, benefits, and budgeting. The charity also runs wellbeing workshops and its “Next Steps” programme, which helps individuals build life skills and confidence. Operating from churches and community centres, Compassion Acts supports people regardless of background or belief. Entirely reliant on donations, it has a large volunteer base and a dynamic board, making a significant impact on local lives through holistic, person-centred support.
The sponsor for this application is Brian Kellaher, Plant Yard Mechanical/Electrical Supervisor: “I’m really pleased to hear that Compassion Acts was successful in its submission to the Vinci Foundation. I’m proud to think that we can help such a worthwhile charity that works hard to support those who need help the most.”
Leyland Playscheme
Leyland Playscheme is a long-established charity providing enriching summer activities for children aged 5 to 14 across Leyland and South Ribble. Founded in 1974, it offers week-long programmes filled with arts, sports, games, and outdoor adventures, grouped by age to ensure tailored experiences. The scheme also runs Samlesbury Mega-Fun Week, serving over 1,000 children. Entirely volunteer-led, it fosters community spirit and youth development, with many young adults gaining leadership experience. Leyland Playscheme promotes physical, mental, and social wellbeing, especially for children facing economic or social challenges, and continues to grow through year-round fundraising and training initiatives.
The sponsor for this application is Phil Wells, Financial Controller, who shared: “This organisation means a lot to me personally. It’s incredibly rewarding to see children grow in confidence over the course of the week—from being quiet and hesitant on the first day, reluctant to join in or make friends, to running in on the final day, eager to see the friends they’ve made through Playscheme. It’s equally inspiring to watch our young leaders develop. Many start out shy and reserved, but soon take ownership of their groups, growing into strong, capable leaders who actively seek more responsibility.”
Lancashire Youth Challenge
Lancashire Youth Challenge (LYC) is a dynamic charity empowering young people aged 11–25 across Lancashire to build confidence, resilience, and life skills. Through three core programmes, Restore, Time to Breathe, and Rise to the Challenge, LYC offers physical activities, creative workshops, wellbeing support, and outdoor expeditions. Their youth-led approach encourages participants to shape their own goals and experiences, fostering personal growth and self-belief. LYC supports those facing mental health challenges, social disadvantage, or limited opportunities, helping them overcome barriers and thrive. The charity’s impact is reflected in transformative stories of young people gaining confidence, purpose, and hope for their futures.
The sponsor for this application is Caz Sumner, Northern Business Development and Marketing Coordinator: “I’ve chosen to sponsor Lancashire Youth Challenge because of my love for the outdoors. I genuinely believe in the transformative power of nature and outdoor experiences to help people grow. Through my own volunteering with young people in outdoor settings, I’ve seen first-hand how these activities can boost confidence, improve mental health, and support personal development.”
