Jenx & Jiraffe receive prestigious business award after going above & beyond for disabled children
After finding new ways of ensuring disabled children had access to its life-changing equipment throughout the pandemic, Jenx and Jiraffe have been formally recognised as a ‘UK Business Hero’.
Established in 1982 by a paediatric physiotherapist and a product designer, Sheffield-based manufacturer Jenx has grown to become a key supplier of specialist equipment for disabled children.
Now, alongside its UK distribution division, Jiraffe, the company has been formally recognised for its efforts throughout the pandemic by the British Chambers of Commerce and Sheffield Chamber of Commerce.
The family business has bestowed the accolade of ‘UK Business Hero’ and was sent an official letter of congratulations from HRH The Countess of Wessex GCVO.
Since the start of the outbreak, Jenx says it has pushed to help hundreds of families and vulnerable children get access to the aids and advice needed.
In particular, the company pointed to new schemes, initiatives and services introduced in a bid to reduce lead times, enhance the flexibility of service and enable easy access to vital expert guidance and equipment for those who have needed it most.
Holly Jenkins, Divisional Director at Jiraffe, said: “It’s difficult to put into words how proud I am of the work done by our team during what has been an unbelievably tough year for everybody, but particularly for the families and children whom we will continue to support this winter.
“Being recognised by the British Chambers of Commerce and Sheffield Chamber of Commerce as a UK Business Hero during such a tough year is a fantastic accolade, but is no more than the dedicated, committed, innovative and hard-working team deserves.”
It highlighted the initial action taken by Jiraffe during the first Covid-19 lockdown and subsequent closure of schools. The distribution arm moved to hand-delivering equipment free of charge nationwide to children and families who would ordinarily have accessed this in school.
This was followed by the launch of its Emergency Posture Provision (EPP) scheme. The initiative offered families a low-cost loan of essential postural support equipment for children during the first lockdown, along with access to guidance and advice on best use.
Holly also praised the Jenx and Jiraffe teams for the ‘crucial connection’ they provided between therapists, advisors, carers and families during the period. Between April and August, Jenx’s staff of ‘essential workers’ and Jiraffe’s network of therapists and product advisors successfully attended almost 400 assessments – either virtually or in person.
Most recently, the brands have launched a Knowledge and Know How service as the latest part of its ‘Here to Help’ initiative. The company says the scheme will enable the company to continue to provide vital services through a dedicated team, covering all products and clinical support needs.
“Jiraffe’s ‘Here to Help’ initiative perfectly captures our company ethos to always be there to support those who need it most during the toughest of times,” finished Holly.
“The vital connection between our network of families, therapists and advisors has been made even more crucial by the pandemic. Our team has more than stepped up to the plate.”
Recently, the Jenx and Jiraffe have opened up two new positions within the company, searching for a new business development manager and product advisor – click to find out more about the roles.
