Whenever we start a new year, it’s always a good time - albeit sometimes a little daunting - to reflect on the one just passed. To remember the things we loved, maybe the things we miss, maybe even the things that were a little questionable. But one thing’s for sure, with each year comes growth, inspiration and a determination of how you’d like the next one to go.

With there being so many individuals, departments, aspirations and all within New World - reflection and round ups of the previous year plays a big part in shaping how we want to see the next one play out. And, I suppose, in this case not only the next year, but also the next decade which is pretty exciting stuff!

While we have all been sitting and planning and pondering and getting ready to kick-start 2020, I think it’s always best to reflect first on the goodness that we spread in 2019 and how we can continue to spread some goodwill and awareness around the country through passion and love.

2019 - in terms of charity - was a big one for New World. The dedication that comes from both our teams and our guests fills my heart with joy and reminds me daily why I love working for a company that not only gives back but enjoys and strives to do so. Seeing the generosity grow throughout 2019 has been a pleasure to behold and I’m excited to let you in on all the goodness that’s been shared.

Over the last year, our 27 venues have collectively supported over 40 different charities. From children’s charities, to charities that mean something to the people around us. They have supported each other and committed to prove to people that someone cares. Through charity challenges, 21 people took part in The Three Peaks Challenge and a further 9 took to the clouds and skydived for the charities they care most about. This group alone raised over £13,000 - which is mind blowing!

I think maybe one of the best charitable spectacles of last year would have to of been The New World Cup. For any of you who may have missed this: The New World Cup was a football tournament between all of NWTC and it’s really quite amazing what happens when you throw a bunch of already competitive people into a competitive football situation. What was so special was that not only did all teams who played raise £600 for their chosen charities, nearly a quarter of attendees came to support their sites and weren’t playing at all. The atmosphere was so euphoric that the company matched the money we raised on the day which went to the winning team (cough cough- The Club House) AND THEN just to top of all things charitable... The Club House, who had two teams playing, split the money won between the two charities!!

All of this is amazing, and it just shows what the power of the collective is really capable of. It’s a wonderful feeling to know you’re a part of something bigger and you have the opportunity in front of you to make the difference you want to make. What really takes my breath away is the support and generosity of our guests, who value and donate to all these causes that matter most to those who serve them. Our guests have collectively donated over an incredible £87,000 last year. And we cannot thank them enough. You have changed lives and from the bottom of the hearts of everyone in New World, thank you for your incredible support.

2019 was a big year for us as we raised more money for charity than ever before. Through our guests, our staff and all our friends and family we raised £123,181.80 - what a way to end a decade.