In her latest article for Charities Institute Ireland, Mary O’Kennedy, Chair of EUConsult and Managing Director of O’Kennedy Consulting, explores why the ‘S’ in ESG has never been more urgent. In a time of growing social division and political complexity, Mary calls on charities and social enterprises not to retreat, but to lead.
We are pleased to share main takeaways of this article as they speak directly to the mission of EUConsult and our network of consultants supporting the social sector across Europe.
As we move through 2025, the world continues to face significant geopolitical shifts, increasing social division, and polarised public discourse. From regions rolling back diversity and inclusion efforts to ongoing global debates on equity and justice, the social dimension of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) is under mounting pressure.
In this complex landscape, businesses find themselves balancing risk and responsibility. They are expected to lead on social issues, yet many hesitate due to fears of backlash or audience fatigue, especially when purpose-driven communications risk seeming more like public relations than genuine change. For charities and social enterprises, this is not a time to withdraw, but to step forward with confidence. The social challenges we confront have not diminished, they have intensified. Charities are uniquely positioned to support businesses in navigating these challenges with integrity and authenticity.
When ESG first emerged as a corporate priority, the primary focus was on environmental concerns and governance practices. These areas attracted attention because they were increasingly regulated and familiar to investors. However, in the aftermath of global health crises and heightened social justice awareness, the social dimension has become equally essential in shaping how organisations are perceived and trusted by their stakeholders.
While some parts of the world have witnessed resistance to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programmes, most forward-thinking companies and those sincerely committed to positive social impact recognise that social responsibility must evolve to meet new expectations rather than disappear.
This is the space where charities and social enterprises can lead the way. Your mission is built around fostering healthy, resilient communities and addressing social issues that also matter deeply to businesses. More importantly, your lived experience, expertise, tested programmes, and credibility are vital in bringing the ‘S’ in ESG to life authentically, stated Mary.
The opportunity now is to shift the narrative around charities and social enterprises, from being grateful recipients of corporate support to becoming proactive strategic partners. It is essential that you are present at the table with business leaders, collaborating to co-design solutions that generate meaningful social, cultural, and economic impact.
At a recent Philanthropy Ireland Corporate Network session, Ian Murray from Bank of Ireland illustrated how purposeful philanthropy forms a central pillar of their social mandate. Their approach is grounded in the understanding that strong communities are fundamental to a strong economy. This mindset reflects a growing consensus across the sector that societal wellbeing and economic resilience are deeply interconnected.
There are several inspiring examples of values-driven partnerships currently making a real difference. Vodafone Ireland Foundation’s Hi Digital programme, developed in collaboration with ALONE and the Irish Girl Guides, empowers older adults by enhancing their digital skills and helping them embrace technology to maintain independence and social connection.
Vodafone has also partnered with Dublin City University’s Anti-Bullying Centre and the ISPCC to develop the Tozi app, a tool designed to help young people navigate the online environment safely and positively.
In addition, Mason Hayes & Curran (MHC) recently announced a partnership with Rethink Ireland and the Department of Rural & Community Development to launch a €1.5 million Connected Communities Fund. This initiative aims to build inclusive and resilient communities while strengthening social cohesion throughout Ireland. MHC also joined the Global Leadership Foundation, an organisation supporting emerging democracies to govern effectively, contributing to peace, stability, and socio-economic development. Will Carmody, Managing Partner at MHC, expressed their commitment by stating that equality and inclusion are core principles for the firm. He added that when everyone in society feels connected and understood, collaboration flourishes, enabling communities to address social challenges collectively and foster peace and inclusivity.
These examples demonstrate the powerful impact that businesses and charities can create by working together with shared values and clear purpose.
To strengthen relationships with corporate partners and maximise impact, charities and consultants can:
Stay informed on today’s business pressures: Understand the complex environment business leaders operate in and position your work as a tool to help them act with integrity.
Communicate in business terms: Frame your social impact in language that resonates with business goals and ESG priorities.
Lead with ideas, not just requests: Approach partnerships with proactive proposals that address real-world challenges, showing readiness to co-create.
Provide measurable evidence: Use data and storytelling to demonstrate outcomes that help your partners show regulators, investors, and stakeholders the value of their social investments.
Build trust over the long term: Invest in meaningful, trust-based relationships that go beyond one-off transactions.
Although some global companies face challenges in maintaining DEI policies amidst shifting political tides, many organisations, including numerous Irish firms, are rising to the occasion. They reaffirm their commitment to meaningful social impact by embracing bold and authentic leadership.
Charities and consultants should remember that their role is not limited to being a “nice to have” for businesses. Instead, by positioning themselves as strategic, impact-driven, and solutions-focused partners, they help companies bring the ‘S’ in ESG to life while advancing their own missions and deepening their lasting influence.
At EUConsult, we remain dedicated to supporting the development of values-aligned, impact-oriented partnerships that enable charities and businesses to thrive together.
