Taking time out - a different aspect to JLT

Lloyd & Partners is a division of JLT that specialises in providing insurance products and services to clients that mainly operate in the independent retail broking arena with an emphasis on the US market. This year, partner Charlie Pearch took part in a race across the US for charity. His inspiration came from chairman John Lloyd, who was aware of a centre for autistic people in Newcastle that had been badly affected following the Northern Rock crisis: the failed bank had been a major sponsor.

Pearch said: "Newcastle County Council did step in but we felt this was something we could donate directly to. I like crazy ideas and cycling, so we set up a team of eight cyclists, which included a client and an underwriter, as well as brokers. We also had a support team that was superb. Things started snowballing and we raised £250,000. We expanded and donated to a charity in West London that helps abused children and their mothers find safety and, since we were racing in the US and people over there were giving, we also linked up with two US charities linked to children's health." Divisional partner Joanna Locke volunteered in the City, where JLT has been involved in the Lloyd's Community Programme: "I spend one lunchtime a week going to a primary school called English Martyrs where I help with IT; others can offer English or maths help, for instance. It can be difficult to find the time but I book this in advance and then stick with it. It is fantastic to see children gain in confidence and pick up social skills."