On 6th December, Securitas UK marks the season of goodwill with the release of ‘Ascending - Song for the Homeless’, a charity single song performed by talented members of the company’s staff.
The COVID-19 pandemic has made life harder for everyone and in particular, for those in key worker roles, including those in on-site security roles. So, in the summer of 2021, Securitas UK decided to generate some fun and entertainment, by running an in-house ‘Securitas Has Got Talent’ competition.
‘Securitas Has Got Talent’ competition
“We were amazed by the response, there were so many wonderful entries,” said Shaun Kennedy, the Country President at Securitas UK. Having seen and heard the musicians and vocalists in the competition, Shaun Kennedy then had the idea of harnessing their talent for a good cause.
The Kokni Muslim Association Birmingham (KMAB) is one of several local charities we work with"
He said, “Homelessness and hunger affects people from all walks of life and at Christmas, the impact is even more acute. The Kokni Muslim Association Birmingham (KMAB) is one of several local charities we work with and members of our finance team spend many hours volunteering with the charity, to help provide hot meals to those in need.
Shaun Kennedy adds, “We thought a charity single that brought attention to hunger and homelessness, and helped raise funds to alleviate these problems, would be very worthwhile.”
Ascending - the Securitas song for the homeless
Securitas commissioned a songwriter to write an inspirational and uplifting track, and work with the 10-strong Securitas amateur ensemble, to produce a professional result.
The talented group, which included a pianist, two drummers, two rappers and several vocalists, spent many hours over several weeks rehearsing, in preparation for the studio recording session. The result is the song titled, Ascending (also known as the Securitas Song for the Homeless).
Raising funds to help the homeless
“I hope you enjoy listening to Ascending, as much as our colleagues enjoyed creating it,” said Shaun Kennedy.
He adds, “I also hope that the song’s powerful message will encourage people to donate to our JustGiving page, through which we’re aiming to raise £ 12,000, to continue to help provide food and shelter to individuals and families, who need this support now more than ever, during the festive season. Thank you for any contribution you’re able to make.”