Victoria Avenue – Social Value

Summary of the Delivered Social Value:

Encourage Resident Participation:

John Southworth provided introduction letters to all neighbouring properties and will provide quarterly newsletters. The newsletters will provide a general project update and will notify any potential disruptions. This creates the foundations for a positive relationship between the community and John Southworth and Great Places.

Spend within the local economy:

85% of the near £400,000 spend on construction materials went to suppliers within 10 miles of the project. This was more than double their initial target of 40%. Not only does this boost the local economy, it is more sustainable and environmentally friendly to purchase from local suppliers.

Local Subcontractors Appointed:

54% of the subcontractors appointed on this scheme were hired from within 20 miles of the project. These included the teams responsible for security on site, the demolition work and the brickwork. This is a way to support the local economy, putting money directly into the pockets on entrepreneurs and small businesses in the area.

Apprentices Hired:

John Southworth hired an apprentice joiner, a site manager, and a project manager. Providing solid opportunities for young people at the beginning of their careers opens the door for a long and successful lifetime within the construction industry. Apprentices gain practical experience while studying to complete professional qualifications.

Work experience placements:

John Southworth took on a volunteer for a summer placement for two days a week during the school holidays. Programmes like this broaden the horizons of young people and expose them to career opportunities that might not promoted as much in schools. This supports the local economy by inspiring young people to get into work, but also supports the construction industry by attracting talented young people.

Local Community Investment & Supporting Community Organisations:

John Southworth liaised with two community centres about some rooms that they needed refitting. They were able to use their specialised knowledge to create social value by volunteering their time.

Supporting local charities:

John Southworth Builders have nominated Kinder Mountain Rescue to be the charity for the year helping raise much needed funds for a volunteer organisation who come to the aid of people in the outdoors. Funds will be raised through various team challenges with an emphasis on Mental Health and Wellbeing.

Thank you to Great Places for providing us with this case study. We always appreciate ICN users updating us on their social value progress. Please contact us if you would like some inspiration and advice about how you can turn your pledged social value into delivered outcomes.