DEBRA has achieved Gold CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) Accreditation after scoring 80% in an independent assessment of its commitment to corporate social responsibility, sustainability, community impact and responsible organisational practice.
The national charity, whose head office is in Bracknell, supports people living with epidermolysis bullosa (EB).
Also known as butterfly skin, it is a group of rare and very painful genetic skin blistering conditions that affect an estimated 5,000 people in the UK and 500,000 globally.
EB causes the skin to blister and tear at the slightest touch.
It can affect the hands and feet only or, in the most severe cases, any part of the body, including blistering on the eyes and internal organs. People living with EB live in constant, debilitating pain.
The condition is currently incurable and, in severe cases, can be fatal.
DEBRA (Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa Research Association) has been awarded Gold CSR Accreditation, recognising the charity’s commitment to embedding social responsibility across its operations.
The accreditation follows an independent assessment othe charity’s approach to corporate social responsibility, with the charity achieving an overall score of 80% — the threshold required for Gold status.
CSR Accreditation recognises organisations that can demonstrate a strong commitment to responsible business practice across areas including environmental impact, workplace culture, community contribution and philanthropy.
For DEBRA, the award reflects its continued focus on creating positive social value — from supporting people and families affected by EB, to working responsibly with colleagues, volunteers, supporters, suppliers and local communities.
Commenting on the award, DEBRA CEO Tony Byrne said: “Achieving Gold CSR Accreditation is an important recognition of DEBRA’s commitment to being a responsible, caring, and values-led organisation. “Our work is driven by the needs of the EB community, and this award reflects the contribution of colleagues, volunteers, supporters and partners who help us deliver lasting social impact.”
The accreditation will provide DEBRA with a framework to continue strengthening its social responsibility activity over the next three years, including annual CSR health checks, access to member resources, and opportunities to share learning and best practice.
As part of the recognition, DEBRA will receive a Gold CSR Accreditation certificate and accreditation mark, feature in the CSR Accredited members directory, and be entered into the International CSR Excellence Awards.
A tree will also be planted in DEBRA’s name through the Green Earth Appeal.
For information, visit: debra.org.uk
