Bernard is the Founder of RISE (Reach Inspire Support Empower) at Lloyds’ Banking Group, providing work experience and apprenticeships to young people at ten colleges across the country. Recognized as a Lloyds’ Banking Group Role Model, he is also an ally of the Rainbow Network and has supported more than 350 students in the UK through coaching and workshops. He is committed to driving inclusion in the workplace and beyond, most notably as a Board member of the UK Chartered Banking Institute’s Forum where he raised over £1m in funds for the 2025 Foundation scheme aimed at increasing opportunities for disadvantaged youth.