Constructing Excellence North East (CENE) has launched a new sub-group of its People Group, to support construction and engineering professionals in creating positive social impact within local communities.
The North East Social Impact Network, will provide a platform for sharing best practice, showcasing innovative projects and fostering collaboration across the region.
The inaugural event, held at Housing Innovation & Construction Skills Academy (HICSA), a pioneering training facility in Sunderland, was chaired by Rebecca Storey, chair of the People Group – one of CENE’s four core theme groups. It brought together a diverse group of industry professionals to explore practical ways of embedding social value in construction and engineering projects.
The next session is scheduled for 28 April at Hartlepool College of Further Education, where attendees will continue to exchange ideas, hear from guest speakers and explore new opportunities for community engagement. The network is open to professionals across the construction and engineering sectors committed to creating meaningful social impact.
Rebecca Storey, chair of the CENE People Group, said: “Social Impact is such an important part of construction, ensuring that projects not only fulfil the construction specification but also support the community in which they are located. The Social Impact Network Launch was a big success bringing together passionate and engaged social value professionals from across different subsectors of construction, to share best practice, challenges and network. There is a huge opportunity for the Social Impact Network going forward and I am really excited to see how it develops.”
Speakers at the launch included Kate Marshall, social value manager for Esh Group, Debbie Watson, social value manager, Caddick Construction and Laura Frost, associate, at Turner and Townsend. Each speaker presented real-life case studies demonstrating how projects under their management have delivered tangible benefits to local communities. Examples ranged from supporting educational initiatives and apprenticeships to environmental improvements and community facilities, illustrating the wide-reaching impact of socially responsible construction practices.
Constructing Excellence in the North East is the regional partner to Constructing Excellence, the single organisation charged with driving the change agenda in construction, housing and regeneration. Its mission is to deliver improved industry performance resulting in a demonstrably better built environment. Its vision is for the UK construction industry to realise maximum value to all clients, end users and stakeholders and exceed expectations through the consistent delivery of world-class products and services.
Catriona Lingwood, chief executive, Constructing Excellence North East, said: “It’s inspiring to see industry professionals coming together to share the ways they are making a real difference in communities. This network provides a platform for learning, collaboration and innovation that will help drive social value across the North East. By sharing experiences and ideas, we can amplify the positive impact our projects have on the people and places around them.”
For more information about the North East Social Impact Network or to get involved, please contact Chelsea Corbett, sector coordinator at Constructing Excellence North East. Email: [email protected]
