Courage, commitment and community spirit: E.ON team abseils Coventry Cathedral for Mind

The event marked a major milestone in E.ON’s ongoing national charity partnership with Mind, which was previously chosen by employees through a company-wide vote.

So far, E.ON has raised over £250,000 for Mind, and as if this latest fundraising challenge wasn’t daunting enough, the team undertook the abseiling challenge in pouring rain.

Jose Davila, Director of Strategy and Innovation at E.ON UK said: “I’m incredibly proud of the E.ON team for taking on the challenge of abseiling down Coventry Cathedral to support Mind, especially in such unpredictable summer weather!

“This initiative is just one example of our deep commitment to mental health and wellbeing — both in the workplace and across the communities we serve. At E.ON, we believe that a culture of support and openness is essential, and our partnership with Mind plays a vital role in helping us deliver on that promise.”

E.ON’s support for Mind’ helps to fund vital services including Mind’s confidential Infoline, peer support platform ‘Side by Side’, and campaigning efforts to ensure everyone experiencing a mental health problem receives support and respect.
The idea of doing a team abseiling challenge came about during World Mental Health Week in May and evolved into a powerful, action-driven day designed to raise both awareness and funding for supporting mental health. In addition to the abseiling challenge, the Coventry Cathedral grounds hosted a vibrant community event featuring free access to the Blitz Museum and Cathedral ruins, over 20 charity and food stalls, and guided Cathedral tours.

In addition to fundraising, E.ON continues to focus on internal wellbeing initiatives. The company has received a Gold Award from Mind’s Workplace Wellbeing Index and supports a network of around 100 ‘Wellbeing Warriors’ who champion mental health across the business. More than 650 employees have participated in ‘Time to Talk’ sessions, where leaders share personal experiences to foster open and honest conversations.

E.ON is also committed to supporting customers facing mental health challenges. Customer service advisers are trained to identify those who may be struggling and can offer tailored support and additional time to seek specialist advice – recognising the close link between financial pressure and mental wellbeing.

As part of the 15-year Strategic Energy Partnership between Coventry City Council and E.ON, various sustainability measures have been successfully implemented, including improving home insulation, enhancing public building efficiency, introducing cleaner transportation options, and establishing new electric vehicle charging stations. This innovative collaboration between a local authority and a private energy provider has already led to positive outcomes, such as promoting sustainability, boosting the local economy, benefiting communities, and generating new green jobs and skills in Coventry.

Coventry, Warwickshire and Worcestershire Mind provides vital mental health support right when and where people need it most, from daytime drop-in hubs to Safe Haven, their evening crisis service. Mind are here for urgent, on-the-ground support, as well as offering longer-term help through recovery-focused programmes, residential support and dedicated services for children, young people and families.

To find out more about E.ON, visit eonenergy.com.