Scripture Union Northern Ireland

How did you make the decision to buy Fairtrade?

As an organisation, we felt that using Fairtrade products was clearly in keeping with our Christian ethos, as it promotes justice for the poor and oppressed. We wanted to do what we could here for those who farm and produce food for us in other countries.

What were the main factors for switching to Fairtrade products?

Staff demand, Organisation's Social Responsibility Policy

What were the biggest challenges in introducing Fairtrade?

Initially, people were concerned that the tea and coffee wouldn't taste as good!

Have you faced any challenges in procuring Fairtrade goods? If so, how have you tackled them?

No - our suppliers have all carried Fairtrade tea and coffee.

How and to what extent has Fairtrade been incorporated into your procurement/tendering policies? Do you have a CSR policy? If so, does Fairtrade fit into it?

We don't have a specific policy.

If you are a public sector organisation, what guidelines did you follow and are you finding them useful and why?

n/a

How has the transition to Fairtrade been communicated internally and/or externally?

We have discussed the issue at staff meetings and are all committed to Fairtrade. As yet, we haven't communicated this externally but intend to do so.

Would you consider there to have been any benefits since using Fairtrade products?

When being discussed, we discovered it was something a lot of staff members felt very strongly about and it led to personal stories and experiences being shared of seeing Fairtrade benefiting producers.

What was the reaction to the switch from your employees and external stakeholders?

Employees were happy with the switch.

What advice do you have for a workplace wishing to switch to Fairtrade?

It's a small action that we can take here to impact the lives of others for good. It can spark conversation, boost staff morale and helps to create a sense of doing something for the good of others.