The Co-operative Group North West Community Impact Award

To achieve this they deliver a range of activities in their community from fundraising to volunteering. There is active support for employee volunteering with 40% of their employees taking time on Wates Giving Day to work in their local community. In 2010 around 100 staff took part in volunteering activities as part of Wates Annual Community Day supporting 67 events in the region.

Shelter is Wates’ preferred charitable partner and alongside fundraising their staff provide help in Shelter shops, provide pro bono advice and participate in challenge events.

To support young people Wates have signed up to the Work Inspiration Campaign, committing to providing meaningful and inspiring work experience placements. Wates have also developed a Building Futures programme to support unemployed adults who have been out of work for a significant time and are disadvantaged in finding work. They provide soft skills, practical training and an insight into the construction industry.