Powering Partnerships: The Trust’s visit to CHAS

Powering Partnerships: The Trust’s visit to CHAS

A reflection from Tracey Talbot, Interim CEO

In September, I had the pleasure of visiting Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS), a charity part funded by British Gas Energy Trust. This was my first opportunity to see how our funding translates into real, tangible support. The experience left me with a renewed sense of purpose and a genuine appreciation for the collaborative spirit underpinning our partnership.

Stepping into CHAS, I was immediately struck by the warmth and openness of the team. The visit unfolded as a relaxed, two-way conversation, with both sides keen to share insights. This reciprocal atmosphere not only put everyone at ease but also set the stage for meaningful dialogue and genuine learning.

The CHAS team came well prepared, painting a vivid picture of their work. It was inspiring to see how our funding is making a difference, particularly through financial wellbeing and energy services for families in need. Their presentation included compelling case studies, demonstrating where our support had directly contributed to positive outcomes. These real-life stories underscored the importance of our partnership and reminded me that, behind every statistic, there are people whose lives are being improved.

What stood out most during my visit was the sense of genuine partnership. There was a palpable feeling that we are all working towards the same goal, providing vital support to children and families across Scotland. It was heartening to see the team so engaged and willing to contribute ideas, reinforcing my belief that the successes of funded projects such as these, lie in their ability to foster deep, collaborative relationships.

Leaving CHAS, I felt energised about the possibilities ahead. The visit confirmed that our funding isn’t just making a difference on paper; it’s driving real, positive change for those who need it most. As we continue to support CHAS and other organisations across Britain, I’m excited about the opportunities to strengthen our programmes, listen and learn from our partners, and ensure our work delivers lasting impact.

In summary, my first visit to a Trust funded organisation was more than just a routine check-in; it was a reminder of the power of partnership, the value of open communication, and the importance of investing in communities.