AGM raises over £200,000 for charities

2011 donation provides more vital support

Nationwide has held its 2011 Annual General Meeting at the Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre, Westminster, London. This year almost 800 members attended to vote and to put questions to the Chairman, Chief Executive and other Directors.

Geoffrey Howe, Nationwide's Chairman, opened the meeting and introduced Graham Beale, Chief Executive, who presented a short overview of the Society's performance over the last 12 months before the question and answer session.

The AGM is one of a number of ways in which members can get involved in the running of the Society. Eligible members were given the opportunity to vote for the election/re-election of directors and to approve the Remuneration Report. Those who could not attend the AGM itself have been voting by post, online or via branch ballot boxes since 20 June 2011.

Once again, Nationwide members have helped to raise money for charity by voting. This year, members could choose which one of three worthy causes they wanted to benefit from their vote. The three charities were: Alzheimer's Society, Macmillan Cancer Support and Shelter, the housing and homelessness charity.

Nationwide's 20p for each vote received has meant that members have helped towards a donation of over £200,000. This will be divided between the three charities depending on the number of votes they each received.

This year, over a million members voted. The votes were counted and results were announced shortly after the meeting.

Commenting on the vote, Geoffrey Howe, Nationwide's Chairman, said: "We are pleased that members have used their vote, not only in support of our Board and the resolutions, but also because voting will have helped make a real difference to many people's lives.

"Each charity provides vital help and support services in our local communities and it's important that, as good corporate citizens, we help these charities maintain and expand their services in any way we can."