Agents raise nearly £30,000 for Breast Cancer Now charity

Agents raise nearly £30,000 for Breast Cancer Now charity

A charity walk organised by Agents Together and Women in Estate Agency has raised over £29,600 for Breast Cancer Now in memory of Sarah Edmundson, a respected industry figure who died from breast cancer in 2024.

The fundraising event took place in south west London, with participants completing either 25km or 50km walks. The event was a tribute to Sarah Edmundson, former chief executive of Agents Together and a board member of Women in Estate Agency, highlighting the property sector’s commitment to charitable causes.

Such initiatives demonstrate the property industry’s community spirit and willingness to support important health causes. While this event does not directly affect tenancy law or landlord regulation, it reflects the broader social engagement of letting agents and landlords within the sector.

Details of the charity walk and its significance

The walking challenge was organised jointly by Agents Together and Women in Estate Agency, groups that represent professionals within the estate and letting agency sector. Participants took on distances of either 25 kilometres or 50 kilometres, showing considerable endurance and dedication.

Vicky Bibiris, chair of Agents Together, described a poignant moment when a walker was approaching the 45-kilometre mark after around 14 hours on foot, pushing through pain in the dark. The event fostered camaraderie among participants, many of whom had not met before but supported each other throughout the challenge.

Amy Bibiris of Women in Estate Agency reflected on the emotional impact of the day, noting how walkers shared food, carried items for one another, and encouraged each other as the physical challenge intensified. This community spirit within the property sector underlines the personal connections and mutual support that can exist beyond commercial activity.

Context of charitable involvement in the property sector

Charitable events like this one are not uncommon in the property industry, which often rallies around causes affecting its members and the wider community. While the sector’s primary focus remains on property management and compliance, such initiatives contribute positively to the industry’s public image and employee morale.

For landlords and letting agents, involvement in charitable activities can also serve as a networking opportunity and a way to strengthen relationships within the sector. It is an example of how industry groups can mobilise resources and people for causes beyond their immediate business interests.

Although this event does not impact regulatory or legal obligations, it highlights the human side of the property business, which can sometimes be overlooked amid discussions of legislation and compliance.

Practical implications for landlords and agents

While the charity walk itself does not impose new requirements on landlords or letting agents, it offers a reminder of the value of industry collaboration and community engagement. Agents and landlords might consider supporting similar initiatives or encouraging their teams to participate in charitable events.

Such involvement can enhance team spirit and provide a sense of purpose beyond day-to-day property management tasks. It may also help agencies demonstrate corporate social responsibility, which can be appealing to tenants and clients alike.

Moreover, these events can help build stronger networks among professionals, which can be beneficial for sharing best practices on compliance, tenant relations, and property standards.

What landlords and agents should consider now

Landlords and letting agents interested in supporting charitable causes should explore opportunities within their local communities or industry groups. Participating in or sponsoring events can be a meaningful way to contribute and raise awareness for important issues such as health and wellbeing.

Keeping informed about initiatives organised by groups like Agents Together or Women in Estate Agency can provide avenues for involvement. Additionally, agencies might consider promoting charitable activities internally to encourage staff participation and enhance workplace culture.

While the immediate focus remains on compliance with tenancy law, possession procedures, and safety obligations, fostering a positive industry culture through charitable engagement can complement these responsibilities and improve overall sector reputation.

Supporting compliance and organisation with TLA membership

For landlords and letting agents, maintaining thorough records and managing compliance obligations is essential. TLA membership offers access to practical compliance resources and document support that can assist in meeting regulatory requirements efficiently.

TLA’s new property management and compliance platform, ORBIT, currently available in BETA testing, is being developed to help members organise properties and portfolios, manage rental documents and records, and keep evidence of compliance activity together. This can be particularly useful for tracking safety inspections, tenancy agreements, and communication logs.

Exploring TLA membership and ORBIT BETA access can provide landlords and agents with tools to stay organised amid evolving regulations, complementing the sector’s broader commitments, including community engagement and charity support.

Review TLA’s landlord membership options and compliance resources to support your property management activities effectively.

Looking ahead, the property sector continues to balance regulatory demands with opportunities to foster community and support charitable causes, reflecting a holistic approach to professional and social responsibility.

Sources: Letting Agent Today