Inclusion, health & well-being

In 2004/05 O2 Ireland asked employees to help formulate its community investment strategy. The employees expressed a desire to focus on young people with disabilities, particularly in the area of communication. During the year, O2 Ireland sponsored the first O2 Ability Awards, broadcast on national television, to recognise companies that demonstrate best practice in the recruitment and employment of people with disabilities. O2 Ireland also sponsored the RehabCare Gala Banquet that raised some of the funds needed to implement Ireland's first national suicide prevention programme.

O2 Germany has worked with the German Olympic Association to encourage sport and fitness among pre-school children. The business has also linked with Power Child, an organisation combating child abuse, and is examining further ways to get involved with child protection.

Manx Telecom, our business on the Isle of Man, has continued to support employee fundraising for a new £2.0 million hospice, which will have the island's first children's unit.