How do we help

Our Local* Programme supports projects and activities which promote the development of cohesive, healthy and sustainable communities in and around our UK sites. Applicants can apply for support (funding, products, associate time and other gifts in kind) for projects which fulfil the following criteria:

Our programme

In recognition of our UK business areas our support is focussed on 3 key themes: Healthy lifestyles, environment and pet welfare.

Healthy Lifestyles

  • Encourages healthy lifestyles through training and education
  • Endorses or encourages healthy / active lifestyles
  • Promotes balanced and enjoyable diet as part of a healthy lifestyle
  • Encourages better understanding of nutrition and nutritional information

The Environment

  • Encourages environmental awareness and responsibility through training and education
  • Supports the preservation of the local environment
  • Improves the biodiversity of the local environment
  • Enhances the quality of life through environmental improvements
  • Encourages involvement and pride in the local environment
  • Promotes sustainable communities

Pet Welfare

  • Encourages responsible pet ownership through training and education
  • Provides better amenities and facilities for pets and their owners
  • Promotes healthy and positive interaction between pets and people
  • Promotes improved health and fitness of pets
  • Addresses current issues faced with pet ownership within the community

 

How it works

Our Local* Programme includes the following elements:

Grants up to £300
Applications for grants of up to £300 are considered against the same criteria as the larger grants. The Community team oversees this process and applications will be reviewed within 6 weeks.

Grants over £300
Each Mars site has a 'pot' of funding. A committee of associates (employees) at each site oversees the allocation of the funding. Each committee is supported by a representative from the community, acting as a consultant, to help ensure the grants meet local needs, and raise the profile of the programme within the local community. Applications are reviewed against the criteria in March, June, September and November.

Product and gifts in kind, including volunteering
Applications are considered against the criteria. The Community team oversees this process and applications are reviewed within 6 weeks.

* 10 miles of Slough, 15 miles of Birstall (Leeds), King’s Lynn, Melton, Peterborough and Waltham