Elinor figures out a better life for others

Elinor Perry, managing director at Pentlands Accountants, will embark on a two-week trip to the country to mark the 10th anniversary of the Philippine Community Fund (PCF).

The charity, which was set-up in 2003 by her best friend of 28 years Jane Walker, supports families living in shanty towns near rubbish dumps by providing education, health and community programmes.

Elinor, who has been a trustee since it started, was appointed chairman of the UK board of trustees 18 months ago.

Her work involves looking after the accounts, as well as helping to raise money through fundraising events held by Pentlands Accountants, of Olympus Avenue, Tachbrook Park.

She will travel to the capital Manila, where she will visit the nearby rubbish dumps where children as young as four often spend their days searching for recyclable rubbish.

She also hopes to volunteer in the PCF School, which provides education for around 900 of the city’s children.

The school was set up as part of the charity’s four-year school project and one of the classrooms was named Pentlands after the firm helped to raise £5,000 in sponsorship.

Elinor said: “The Pentlands team continue to sponsor a little girl in Manila called Judith. I am particularly looking forward to getting the chance to meet her.”

“It is extremely important for me to see what life is like there with my own eyes. These families struggle every day and anything we can provide will make a massive difference to their quality of life.

“I have a generous luggage allowance so I will be taking as many gifts, donations and packages as possible.

“Pentlands clients, friends and colleagues have been dropping in with soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes.”