International communications provider Cable&Wireless has launched its own charitable foundation and is looking for charity partners to help improve the lives of people with special needs through communications technology.

It has invited individuals and organisations to apply for funding to research, develop or implement schemes.  The company will be putting £200,000 into the Foundation and expects to raise an extra £100,000 from colleagues.

As well as funding, the organisation will be providing technical expertise and communications solutions.

John Pluthero, Cable&Wireless Worldwide chairman and trustee of the Foundation, said: “Starting the Foundation is a formal way to harness the fantastic public spirit across our business. It’s a cohesive and global approach that provides the platform to focus our efforts, expertise and funding to make a real difference.”

Applications for funding can be made through the Foundation’s website up until 1 August 2011, with partnerships to be announced in the autumn.