Firms wanting to improve their image could do worse than dig someone else's garden or paint the local youth club.

The Brighton and Hove Community Partnership (BCP) is looking for companies to join in a city-wide scheme where businesses and the community meet.

The partnership is holding a working lunch on Friday where firms can learn how community involvement can improve business.

Family Assurance, the Brighton-based financial services organisation, is hosting the lunch.

BCP co-ordinator Helen O'Freil said: "There will be 25 firms attending the session, which is fantastic news for the local community.

"They will be hearing how the BCP brokers support between the business and community sectors, specialising in employee volunteering and professional support.

"There will also be a chance to learn about an new Government-backed scheme, called community mark, which recognises the contribution small and medium-sized businesses make to their local communities."

Family Assurance has been involved with a number of challenges organised by the BCP, where teams of staff volunteer for a range of activities that have a positive effect on an area of community life.

Examples of challenges include: Decorating the reception area of Hove YMCA and clearing scrub for the National Trust.

Tony Horton, Family Assurance community affairs manager, said:

"This is one of the most exciting and enjoyable parts of our community programme.

"Younger staff who may not be natural leaders are encouraged to take on the mantle of team or project leader for the day with some outstanding successes.

"It also allows management to gauge the strengths and weaknesses of its people and plan accordingly for their development."

Ms O'Freil said: "The benefits to business this type of activity encourages are staff motivation, team building, staff development and retention, positive perception of the company in the community, a wider understanding of key social issues and networking opportunities."

To find out more about the Business Community Partnership, contact it on 01273 770075.