VGC received a social value award at the Balfour Beatty Highways conference.
Geri Smith, head of sustainability and environment for Balfour Beatty, delivered the award virtually at the online event on Tuesday 24 November.
The award recognises us for achieving the best social value outcomes on projects. Geri noted our work promoting local employment, investing in training, engaging with young people, schools and the wider community. As winners, VGC has shown leadership in this area. In particular, our Go Beyond the Gates programme is delivering outstanding results for Balfour Beatty and the wider industry.
Accepting the award, VGC director Chris Ryan said: “Go Beyond the Gates is just the tip of the iceberg, on the corporate social responsibility programmes that we are delivering. We want to attract and retain the best talent to the industry, and to deliver maximum social value and legacy.
“This includes a strong focus on local employment outcomes. We’re proud of our virtual schools engagement, work experience and work placements, as well as our pre-employment programmes, community engagement and support for under-represented groups.
“It is essential, especially during the COVID pandemic, that we work with the most vulnerable in society. Achieving positive employment outcomes for them benefits the whole of society.”
Chris thanked CSR manager Kimberley McGinty, who leads on these programmes, and everyone at VGC who contributes to these outcomes through the recruitment and worker engagement processes.
Group services director Ciara Pryce gave a presentation on delivering social value and creating a lasting legacy as part of the conference.
She added: “Thank you, Balfour Beatty Highways, for this award. We look forward to continuing our collaborative work in 2021.”
The winners from today’s event were:
- Addison Plant – People and behaviour award
- VGC Group – Social value award
- Aggregate Industries – Digital and innovation award
- Hercules Site Services – Delivery award
- CD fencing – Zero Harm award.
