Our impact on the communities, people and environment around us

Last updated: April 2026

1. About This Policy

This policy describes the concrete actions Online Media Works takes to create positive impact beyond our commercial services. It covers what we give back, who we support, and how we reduce our environmental footprint.

Online Media Works is a LinkedIn training and business coaching company founded by Esther Partridge-Warner. We work with small business owners, entrepreneurs and micro-business leaders.

2. Pro Bono Coaching

For every 10 hours of paid business coaching we deliver, we give 1 hour of free coaching to a small business or charity in need.

This is a permanent, built-in commitment. At least 10% of our coaching capacity is always available to organisations that need professional support but cannot afford it. We prioritise early-stage businesses and those serving their local communities.

Who benefits

•      Small businesses in their first years of trading who need guidance but lack the budget

•      Charities and not-for-profit organisations looking to grow their reach or improve operations

•      Community-focused ventures that create local social value

3. The Sparkle Squad

The problem

Running a small business can be deeply isolating. UK research consistently shows this is a widespread and serious issue:

56% of UK microbusiness owners have felt isolated while running their business

Source: Startups Magazine / Enterprise Nation research

73% of UK SME owners admit to feeling lonely

Source: Global Banking & Finance Review

55% wish they had someone they could turn to for support

Source: TheBusinessDesk.com

More than 1 in 3 UK entrepreneurs face severe burnout, anxiety and depression, often in complete isolation

Source: WeCovr / Mental Health UK

Our response

In May 2025, Esther founded the Sparkle Squad to directly address this crisis. It is a free, not-for-profit community designed to give small business owners a place to connect, share and support each other.

The Sparkle Squad now has over 200 members and continues to grow.

What the Sparkle Squad provides

•      Four dedicated WhatsApp groups: General chat, Promotions, "I need help with..." and Announcements

•      A free, searchable online directory maintained by Esther, plus a dedicated app and events space

•      Monthly in-person meetups for real-world connection and peer support

•      A vibrant ecosystem for learning, collaboration and shared knowledge at every business stage

•      Completely free to join and participate. No upselling, no hidden costs, no catches

Volunteered time

All of Esther's time spent building, managing and growing the Sparkle Squad is given voluntarily and free of charge. This includes moderating four community groups, maintaining the directory, and organising monthly in-person meetups. This is an ongoing commitment on top of the 10:1 pro bono coaching hours described above.

4. Trans Allyship

Esther is an active trans ally. Online Media Works publicly supports the trans community and works to create spaces where people of all gender identities feel welcomed and respected.

This commitment is reflected in how we communicate, the communities we build and the partnerships we choose.

5. Local Community Involvement

Esther is an active member of her local church community. We believe in being present and contributing to the places where we live, not just the professional spaces where we work.

6. Environmental Actions

We take practical steps to reduce our environmental footprint:

•      100% electric vehicle: all business travel is carried out in a fully electric car, producing zero tailpipe emissions

•      Co-working space: Esther works from a shared co-working space, reducing energy consumption compared with running a standalone office

•      Digital-first delivery: the majority of our coaching and training is delivered online, minimising unnecessary travel for both us and our clients

7. Recognition

In March 2026, Esther was nominated for the Passion Egg award at the Good Egg Awards 2026, run by QSL ISO Quality Services Ltd. The award recognises individuals who go above and beyond in giving back to their business community.

From the nomination by Helen Mulvenna:

"She consistently turns challenges into opportunities, not just for herself but for the entire small business community she supports. By creating and championing a WhatsApp group of over 100 small businesses, she has built a thriving hub where people learn from each other, collaborate, and feel genuinely supported.

She pours her heart into helping small businesses grow, giving people confidence on LinkedIn, and generously sharing her expertise. She regularly offers discounted support sessions to trusted contacts, not because she has to, but because she truly wants others to succeed.

She is an unstoppable force of energy: connecting businesses, cheering others on, and championing success without ever seeking the spotlight for her own business. Esther is passion personified and an incredible example of what it means to give back with heart."

8. Review

This policy is reviewed annually. As Online Media Works grows, we are committed to expanding our CSR activities and measuring their impact. We welcome feedback from clients, community members and partners.