Ben Cohen is the latest name to be added to our speaker line up for Volunteer Expo Live, hosted by Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland.
In 2012, Ben formed The Ben Cohen StandUp Foundation, which is the world’s first foundation dedicated to raising awareness of the long-term, damaging effects of bullying.
The foundation funds UK-based projects, and has so far issued grants to over 40 charities and organisations who are doing real-world work to eradicate bullying.
Particular attention is paid to removing homophobia in sports, but the foundation focuses on acting against bullying in a broad number of areas, including in schools, workplaces and online.
This is a cause extremely close to Ben’s heart. He was moved to start the foundation following the death of his father, who was fatally injured trying to protect an employee who was being bullied.
It is estimated that up to 50% of children and young people, along with many adults, have experienced bullying. That can often cause people to feel disconnected and isolated, and can also lead to even more serious problems like depression, anxiety and in extreme cases, a higher risk of suicide.
Prior to establishing the foundation, Ben enjoyed a hugely successful rugby union career, and was a member of England’s historic Rugby World Cup winning team in 2003. He also sits joint third on England’s list of all-time try scorers.
Ben joins Hannah Ingram-Moore, daughter of Captain Sir Tom Moore and founder of The Captain Tom Foundation, on this year’s speaker line-up, with more to be announced!
Volunteer Expo Live is hosted by Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland, and is taking place at the NEC, Birmingham on 6th and 7th May 2022.
