Sector: Social value

As an established council contractor, SWG Group has recently completed three projects in Sandwell. As well as the practical element of the projects SWG have shown an enthusiasm and commitment to delivering a social value impact within the area and delivering meaningful additional social value across all the Sandwell Councils 4 key pillars – Employment & Skills, Community and School engagement, Local Spend and Environmental management.

Forge Mill Farm

The first project Forge Mill Farm, Sandwell Valley, SWG transformed a barn into a dedicated purpose-built indoor adventure and natural play barn area. 

This space now serves as a valuable resource for learning and play, reinforcing a great educational and fun space.  

Employment & Skills

Two carpentry learners from Sandwell College had 2 weeks work experience, helping with the timber structure of the play barn and working on a project with local school students to build planters for growing vegetables. Tom and Reece have since used this valuable experience to help them gain apprenticeships.

During the development a local resident was taken on via an agency as labour operative and now has been successful in becoming more permanent as telehandler driver.

Tim – telehandler driver, taken on indirectly, by their labour agency initially at Forge Mill Farm, has become a direct employee working on subsequent Sandwell projects.

Local Spend

By utilising local suppliers and supply chain SWG spent £644,850.40 within 20 miles of the project.

Environmental

SWG demonstrated environmental responsibility throughout, such as reuse and recycling whilst constructing and incorporating repurposed materials on other buildings on the land, reusing 160 tonnes of hardcore and 800 tonnes of soil. For example, roof sheets from the barn were re-used on another building. All concrete panels, timber cladding and gutters were kept on site for repairs to other buildings. Also, a few windows that were removed by subcontractor (Excel 2000). Rather than going to landfill they were returned to their warehouse and broken up, with all the different materials separated out and heading onto the next stage of their journey. 

Thorn Close Wednesbury

SWG’s social value commitment extended to Thorn Close housing and refurbishment project

Employment & Skills

Whilst working on the development, SWG, employed two local apprentices directly to support the programme of works. 

New apprenticeship positions have provided local residents Joshua Y, Trainee Quantity Surveyor, and Ashley D, Assistant Buyer/Administrator, with the opportunity to work and gain qualifications with SWG and show their potential for developing within the company following their apprenticeships.

Also, a local job was created for a resident at Thorn Close apartments, who was taken on as a general operative.

Liam, a resident at Thorn Close Apartments, was initially employed through an agency as a General Labourer before being taken on directly by SWG Group.

An existing apprentice Daniel D – Apprentice Quantity Surveyor from Wolverhampton continued his apprenticeship and learning whilst working on the project assisting the lead QS. 

Community Engagement

Beyond the work opportunities SWG extended their support to nearby St. Mary’s Church by donating refreshments to their coffee mornings.  This was a great way to engage with the residents.

During the project SWG supported a revamp of the church’s community hall, not only by giving it a bit of a spruce up but by also giving their time voluntarily, hiring equipment such as a scaffold tower and supplying painting materials (chosen by the church) to create a brighter, more cheerful space. As part of this a student from Sandwell College was given the opportunity to gain valuable work experience…

Dominik, pictured above, a P&D learner from Sandwell College gained valuable work experience outside of the College environment.

Contact was made with Wood Green Academy and Old Park School, and engagement activities were offered by SWG, but the schools were unable to take up the offers at the time unfortunately. 

Local Spend

20 of SWG’s sub-contract supply chain were businesses from within the Black Country and Birmingham area. 4 of which are Sandwell based. Thorn Close had local spend of £1.4 M within 20 miles of the project.

Environmental

As part of the work at Thorn Close, a number of windows were removed. Rather than going to landfill they were returned to their warehouse and broken up, with all the different materials separated out and heading onto the next stage of their journey, segregation and recycling of the glass, metals and dry mixed recyclables is a standard practice withSWG. Another example on this project of how they reduced waste materials going to landfill was the Timber pallets – residents had the opportunity to take and reuse on local allotments for compost frames and the remaining pallets were collected by a local pallet recycling company.

Whitgreave Crescent

The third Sandwell project SWG group has recently completed was council social homes at Whitgreave Crescent in West Bromwich.

Employment & Skills

SWG provided two meaningful work placements for two Sandwell College plastering learners Finley and Jayden. Tim – telehandler driver continued employment working across all three of the Sandwell projects.

Community Engagement

SWG also supported some much-needed decorating at Yew Tree & Tame Bridge Community centre giving some of the well-used rooms a new lease of life. Whilst giving the opportunity for a local resident on a multi-skill training course at NOVA training in Oldbury to get some valuable work experience.

Jayden from NOVA training made a good impression and felt he had learned a lot from this experience that will help him in the future.

Environmental

Again, on this third project similar good practises to the other projects were used ensuring the re-use and recycling of materials wherever possible. 

Local Spend

SWG prioritised supporting the local economy by ensuring that the majority of project spend remained within the 20 miles radius.  Over 30 local SME’s and suppliers were engaged, resulting in a total local spend of £762,232.00 within 20 miles of the project.

Summary of all three projects

SWG have shown a full versatile and strong commitment across all 3 projects, remaining dedicated to their contractual developments and building stronger sustainable communities.  By prioritising social value in their work, they have created opportunities for local people and local initiatives in education, sustainability, community well-being, whilst supporting the local economy.

Shaun Humphries, Director at SWG “At SWG, we take pride in fostering strong community connections and embedding sustainability into everything we do, no matter where our work takes us.  Our approach is centred on meeting the needs of client and communities.  Working alongside Sandwell’s social value commitments has provided us a platform to showcase how keeping things local and contributing positive environmental practices bring wider social benefits that leaves a positive impact on the communities we serve”.

Sandwell Advocacy, a well-established local charity providing vital support and independent advocacy services to residents across the borough, has recently benefited from a major office refresh, made possible through the support of Tipton-based firm Doocey Group.

Founded in 1993, Sandwell Advocacy offers a lifeline to individuals who need help to be heard. Their team of advocacy partners work with people facing a range of challenges, from safeguarding young people to supporting young carers who often struggle to have their voices heard.

But while their work has always been front-line, the charity’s Tipton office had grown tired and in need of a facelift. That’s where the collaboration with Doocey Group came in.

Transforming the space

Doocey Group kindly donated their time, expertise and materials to give Sandwell Advocacy’s reception and staff areas a much-needed refresh. The result is a brighter, more welcoming environment for both visitors and staff, a transformation that’s already making a positive impact on the charity’s daily work.

Sharon Jenkins, Business Support Officer at Sandwell Advocacy, said:

“This has given our team and visitors a real lift. A fresh and welcoming environment makes such a difference to how people feel when they come through our doors. We’re incredibly grateful to Doocey Group and Karen Richards from Sandwell Council for making this happen.”

A Commitment to social value

For Doocey Group, the project reflects their ongoing commitment to supporting the local community and contributing to Sandwell’s social value goals.

Kirstie Stuart, Head of HR & Support Services at Doocey Group, said:

“As a local company, we’re always looking for ways to make a positive impact in our community and to support Sandwell’s social value ethos. We’re proud to have played a part in improving Sandwell Advocacy’s environment and giving their staff and visitors a space they can feel good in.”

Karen Richards, our Social Value Officer, added:

“This collaboration is a brilliant example of how local businesses, voluntary services, and council teams can work together to bring a bit of sunshine to Sandwell’s community spaces.”

This case study highlights how partnerships between businesses and community organisations can deliver real, tangible benefits for Sandwell’s residents, demonstrating the power of social value.

GreenSquareAccord’s Swan Lane development in West Bromwich has been recognised with the Social Impact Award at the Insider Midlands Residential Property Awards on Thursday 25 June 2025.

The award celebrates meaningful community engagement and collaborative working that delivers lasting benefit for local people.

Supporting meaningful local engagement

Our Social Value Officers, Michael Wragg and Karen Richards are working closely with GreenSquareAccord and Morro Partnerships to support a programme of local engagement activity alongside the physical development.

The activities so far include:
• Guided site tours for 60 learners from Ryders Green Primary School
• A garden transformation project at Chapter House in West Bromwich
• Work experience placements delivered in February 2025
• Litter Watch clean-up support
• Donations of mugs to Smethwick Library and the Sandwell Youth Hub

The development was one of three shortlisted for the award, standing out for the depth of its outreach and the collaboration between partners to ensure community benefits were delivered at every stage.

Mary Doria, GSA Project Manager, said: “It is such an honour to accept the Social Impact Award, alongside our delivery partners, on behalf of my colleagues. It feels great to be recognised by our peers at the Insider Midlands Residential Property Awards.”

Michael Wragg, Senior Social Value Officer at Sandwell Business Growth, said: The approach of GreenSquareAccord and Morro Partnerships to delivering meaningful social value to this project alongside the physical works has been fantastic. As you can see by the activities carried out, they have fully embraced our adopt a local school initiative as well as our community engagement ethos. On top of this there are work experience and apprenticeship opportunities we are currently working on and lots more to come as the project develops further.

A development with long-term benefit

When complete, the Swan Lane site will provide 147 affordable homes on the former gas works, offering a mix of houses and apartments to meet varied housing needs across West Bromwich. It stands as a strong example of how investment in physical infrastructure can also deliver wider social value when communities are involved early and meaningfully.

Sandwell Business Growth continues to support partners across the borough to embed social value into planning, procurement and delivery ensuring that growth creates opportunity for all.

As part of their commitment to giving back.  Connect Construction, a growing SME working on local projects with Sandwell Council, recently took steps to support the local community in Rowley Regis.

Bed Eden, Commercial Manager at Connect Construction, reached out to Sandwell Council’s Social Value team to find a meaningful way the company could contribute. Social Value Officer Karen Richards quickly connected them with Barnardo’s Family Support Centre, which had an overgrown, unused area at the front and side of the building in need of attention.

Supporting the community

Wasting no time, the Connect team sprang into action.  Within days, they had cleared the space of brambles, weeds and overgrown grass. Completely transforming the appearance of the site.

“This is great”, said Sarah Rutter, Childrens Services Manager at Barnardos. “Many thanks to Ben and the team.  The work was completed in no time and its fantastic to now have a much more attractive view for our centre’s clients using the centre.  It is greatly appreciated.”

Karen added: “A big thank you to Ben and Connect Construction team for stepping in so quicky and making such a positive difference.  It’s a wonderful example of how businesses can support their local communities in many meaningful ways”.

Ben Eden concluded: “We’re only a small business, but if we can help support the community, it brings a real sense of achievement.  It’s rewarding to make a difference in small ways, wherever we can”.

MCP, one of Sandwell Council’s voids contract partners, was recently shortlisted as a runner-up in the Best Customer Impact category at the National Housing Maintenance Forum (NHMF) Awards.

The NHMF Best Customer Impact category recognises projects that go beyond standard service delivery to create meaningful change for local residents. MCP’s nomination, in collaboration with Sandwell Council, showcased how their innovative approach to social value has transformed lives across Smethwick and the wider borough.

MCP’s work has been aligned with Sandwell’s four pillars of social value, ensuring they created long-lasting benefits for the community.

Employment and skills

By utilising local supply chain several new local jobs and apprenticeships have been created as well as safeguarding existing local employment.

MCP has embraced Sandwell’s Adopt a School initiative, forging a long-term partnership with Holly Lodge School in Smethwick. Through this initiative, they have provided mentoring, career advice, mock interviews and skills development opportunities for young people, helping to inspire the next generation. Read about what happened here.

Community engagement

By engaging directly with local residents and community groups across the area they work MCP has gained an understanding of the challenges and needs of the Smethwick community. This led to them supporting Ideal for All by supplying and installing a new kitchen facility at their West Smethwick Enterprise Market Garden, creating a space for holiday activities for young people and various community support groups. find out more.

Supporting local businesses

MCP has prioritised working with local suppliers to ensure that investment stays within the Sandwell economy. This commitment to local spend creates wider economic benefits by helping businesses grow and thrive. MCP recently took part in a Meet The Buyer event to let local businesses know about opportunities with them, what they are looking for and how to access them. Following this event MCP gave an opportunity to a local business they had met there to do a trial job for them. This went well and has led to them awarding further work to them. Learn more about what happened.

Environmental responsibility

MCP has taken a proactive role in supporting environmental projects across Sandwell, including their partnership with Litter Watch’s Community Garden. Their engagement has encouraged sustainable practices and promoted community-driven environmental initiatives. Find out more about their partnership with Litter Watch.

Recognised by the community

Karen Richards, Social value officer, said:
“MCP has been exceptional with their creative and inspirational approach in supporting our residents and community hubs in so many ways. They have gone above and beyond our expectations.”

Alicia Wingfield, Chief Officer, Litter Watch:
“We are incredibly grateful for the extremely generous donation from MCP, which has significantly elevated our work at the allotment. This space not only fosters a love for nature and sustainability but also provides valuable educational opportunities for the children.”

Social value in Sandwell

MCP’s recognition at the NHMF Awards is a testament to the power of social value driven business practices. Their work not only improves housing and maintenance services but also empowers local communities, enhances opportunities for young people, and strengthens the local economy.

We encourage businesses to embed social value into their operations, creating lasting community benefits. If your business wants to make a difference in Sandwell, visit our social value page.

Independent Scaffolding Services Ltd (ISSL) has grown steadily since 1995, evolving from a labour-only provider to delivering full contract packages for Sandwell Council and beyond. With a strong focus on training and employing local talent, the company demonstrates a long-standing commitment to social value and skills development.

Investing in local people and long-term careers

Michael Wragg, Senior Social Value Officer, said:

“Sandwell’s Social Value Team have recognised over many years that ISSL enables local learners to work towards and complete qualifications and then remain in employment with them afterwards in a financially rewarding career.”

“Recently I visited various sites across Sandwell and Birmingham to meet some of the most recent learners and speak to them about the impact this is having on their lives. The feedback was really positive, and they are enjoying being able to learn and progress towards recognised qualifications.”

The most recent apprentices and learners are:

• Jake P – Dudley Port – started 06/05/2025
• Charlie S – West Brom – started 24/02/2025
• Chris R – Oldbury – started 04/11/2024
• Jak R – Wednesbury – started 07/10/2024
• Jack S – Bilston – started 18/03/2024
• William W & James W – Gornal – started 15/01/2024
• Dan J – Cradley Heath – started 05/06/2023 – recently qualified and continues employment with ISSL

Progression and retention:

ISSL has a proven track record of retaining staff long after their apprenticeship ends. A standout example is Jacob O, who joined through the Sandwell Guarantee scheme in November 2017, completed his apprenticeship, and 7½ years later, is still with the company.

Other long-serving or progressing staff include:

• Gareth E – 04/08/2014 – Wolverhampton (now advanced scaffolder; assessment due this year)
• Tommy S – 18/02/2020 – Cradley Heath (completed apprenticeship, now scaffold card holder)
• Daniel M – 01/03/2021 – Wolverhampton (trained to Part 2, scaffold card obtained)
• Mitchell C – 23/05/2022 – Wednesbury (trained to advanced level, gold scaffold card)
• Ben P – 16/07/2022 – Bloxwich (awaiting end-point assessment)
• Sam F – 25/07/2022 – Cannock (NVQ ongoing, assessment due later this year)
• Joshua W – 15/02/2023 – Gornal (trained to Part 1, Part 2 training planned)
• Brody H – 09/02/2024 – Tipton (trained to Part 2, NVQ ongoing)
• Ross T – 27/08/2024 – Tipton (trained to Part 1, Part 2 planned next year)

Alternative routes and inclusive training

ISSL recognises that the traditional apprenticeship route doesn’t suit everyone. Despite higher costs, they’ve supported several individuals via a trainee scaffolding labourer route, helping them achieve the full Scaffolding Card through structured assessment and training.

Stuart Slater, ISSL Director, said:

“Scaffolding is a great career for young people who want to earn while they learn, working outdoors, and be part of something big. Hands-on building structures with qualifications that can lead to well-paying jobs. Working as part of a crew and seeing the results of your efforts at the end of the day scaffolding could be the perfect fit.”

Thomas Howse Paints, a long-established business in Sandwell, has demonstrated a strong commitment to giving back to the local community. With the support of Sandwell Business Growth, the company became the first business in the borough to take part in the Adopt a Youth Club initiative, partnering with Sandwell Council’s Youth Service to support Brickhouse Youth Club in Rowley Regis. This initiative aims to provide young people with safe, welcoming spaces where they can engage in activities, access resources, and receive essential support.

Supporting young people in Sandwell

Thomas Howse Paints first explored social value opportunities through Sandwell Business Growth, working closely with their account manager, Nicy Morgan, who introduced Garry Plant, General Manager, to Karen Richards, Social Value Officer, to help identify ways to support the local community. Initially, the company considered the ‘Adopt a School’ initiative to create work experience opportunities for young people. However, post-lockdown challenges meant schools were less engaged, leading the business to shift its focus towards community-led support, including food parcel donations to a nearby community hub.

When Adopt a Youth Club was introduced, it proved to be the perfect fit. In June 2024, Thomas Howse Paints made an initial donation of £250, which funded a new Smart TV for the youth club. This addition has significantly enhanced the club’s activities, allowing young people to play games, access the internet, and participate in educational sessions on crucial topics such as online safety and knife crime prevention.

Beyond financial contributions, Thomas Howse Paints employees have also been actively involved in supporting the youth club. Over the summer, the workforce contributed to a food parcel donation, further strengthening their commitment to helping the local community.

A commitment to social responsibility

For Thomas Howse Paints, community support is more than just a policy – it’s a core mission. The company sees its role in Sandwell as not only a business but as a force for positive change. Speaking about their involvement in the initiative, Garry Plant General Manager, said:

“Seeing the money going directly to Brickhouse Youth Club and hearing how it is being used knocks us over. CSR is not a policy, it is a mission. We want to help the community we are in and do the very best of our ability, to encourage young people to improve their financial standing, contribute, and be heard.”

The company’s commitment to youth development is also reflected in its own workforce, where two young apprentice lab technicians have been thriving in their roles for over a year, gaining valuable skills and career opportunities.

Thanks from Sandwell Council

Russell Allen, Senior Youth Officer at Sandwell Council, expressed his gratitude for the ongoing support, saying:

“This fantastic company has so far donated the funds for a new Smart TV, helping us deliver more issue-based work, and provided support for the Warm Hub offer through the Winter, which allows us to provide young people with hot snacks and drinks. It has also enabled us to deliver an amazing Christmas party for the youth club and a reward activity which will take place in March 25. Huge thanks to Garry Plant and all of the staff at Thomas Howse Paints for their continued support for the club, and we look forward to continuing working together in 2025.”

Looking Ahead

Thomas Howse Paints has pledged to continue supporting Brickhouse Youth Club, with plans for ongoing contributions and engagement. Karen Richards, our Social Value Officer, added:

“Through the ‘Adopt a Youth Club’ initiative, Thomas Howse Paints is making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people, ensuring they have access to resources, opportunities, and a supportive environment.”

Sandwell Council’s commitment to supporting local businesses has delivered another success story, as Wednesbury-based Primo Maintenance Services secures a new contract with MCP Property Services following the Sandwell Meet the Buyer event in November 2024.

Hosted by us, the event was designed to help smaller businesses connect with major contractors. Adam Davy, Managing Director of Primo Maintenance Services, attended the event to explore potential opportunities with Sandwell Council contractors.

Through networking at the event, Adam engaged with MCP Property Services and successfully navigated their onboarding process. This led to a significant breakthrough—Primo Maintenance Services was awarded its first order of works on a void property in Smethwick. The team completed the project with excellence, demonstrating their expertise and reliability. Now, Primo is well-positioned for further opportunities within MCP’s supply chain.

This success highlights the value of local networking and collaboration, a key focus for Sandwell’s Social Value and Business Growth Team. By creating opportunities for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to engage with larger contractors, these initiatives drive local economic growth, business development, and job creation.

Rosie Hughes, Business Development Manager at MCP, praised the initiative:
“We approached the Sandwell Social Value team earlier in the year, asking if they could help us identify local SMEs to join our supply chain. Within months, the Meet the Buyer event was organised, and we are so grateful for Sandwell creating this platform—it helped us find Primo Maintenance Services.”

This success story is a testament to the positive impact of Sandwell’s business support initiatives, ensuring local businesses can thrive, grow, and contribute to the region.

Lovell, a construction company known for its community-focused projects, is transforming Darley House and the Lion Farm estate in Sandwell. This major refurbishment includes modernising four low-rise blocks and one high-rise block through external over-cladding, window replacements and other much-needed improvements.

Investing in local careers

Lovell is actively working with our Social Value Officers, Karen Richards and Michael Wragg, and the Employment and Skills team to deliver real opportunities for local people. The company has provided 23 work placements for individuals aged 16 and over through recent and ongoing projects.

Kelly Truman, Regional Training Manager, explains “It’s not just about working on school engagement, but also supporting older residents interested in construction skills. This work positively influences the local economy and helps improve local skills and employment prospects.”

Lovell’s efforts include:

• Organising site visits and interactive workshops.
• Providing employability skills training, such as CV advice and mock interviews.
• Encouraging diversity, including promoting women in construction.
• Offering health and safety awareness talks and accredited training.

Lovell’s dedication to social value extends beyond employment and skills. During their work on the Lion Farm refurbishment, the company reached out to the Black Country Women’s Refuge, offering support through fundraising and donations of toiletries, clothing and toys for the residents.

When the refuge said they wanted to grow plants and vegetables but lacked the facilities, Lovell stepped in and built an eco-friendly greenhouse using recycled plastic bottles. This creative and sustainable initiative has provided residents with a valuable resource while promoting environmental awareness.

A Commitment to sustainability and social value

From the eco-greenhouse to their broader construction practices, Lovell consistently demonstrates its commitment to recycling and sustainability. This coupled with their continuous efforts to deliver social value, means Lovell has created a wide range of benefits for Sandwell residents and serve as an inspiration for all Sandwell businesses.

Kelly sums their work up by saying “We have worked with the Social Value and Think Sandwell Teams for many years, and it’s great to be part of supporting young people’s aspirations and achievements in every way possible to meet their goals.”

C&S Electrical Installations, a family-run business based in Wednesbury, is leading the way in creating social value for Sandwell. By employing local apprentices, supporting the community and embracing sustainability, the company demonstrates a strong commitment to Sandwell.

Investing in local talent

With 11 apprentices at various stages of their qualifications, C&S Electrical is building a skilled workforce for the future. The majority of their employees live in Sandwell and the Black Country, further strengthening the local economy and creating job opportunities within the community.

Kevin Spittle, Director at C&S, said “We’re a family-run business who live in Sandwell and believe in carrying out high-quality work while putting back into the community. We also believe in growing our workforce from within, giving young local people a chance to learn and develop into our skilled workforce.”­-­

Supporting the community

C&S Electrical’s impact extends beyond employment:

• Engagement with schools and sports teams: The company supports local schools and sports initiatives, fostering opportunities for young people.
• Helping local charities: Directors Kevin and Dean purchased gifts for the Sandwell Children’s Trust Christmas Toy Appeal.
• Community repairs: C&S also assists with repairs to community buildings, ensuring these spaces remain functional and safe.

Michael Wragg, our Social Value Officer, said “C&S are one of our excellent social value contract partners. It’s great to see so many local apprentices working on our contracts while working towards being fully qualified in an area of work that will always be needed.”

Promoting sustainability

C&S Electrical Installations is also committed to reducing their environmental impact by:

• Using local suppliers and supply chains whenever possible.
• Recycling and reusing materials to minimise waste.
• Continuously exploring ways to reduce their carbon footprint and energy usage.

C&S Electrical Installations serve as a great example for how a business can contribute to its local area by prioritising social value and sustainability.

MCP Property Services worked with Litter Watch to support a community allotment programme in West Bromwich.

In 2016 a West Bromwich community allotment was taken on by Litter Watch. This is an award-winning community charity supported by Sandwell Council. Established in 1997, Litter Watch initially helped Tipton residents tackle their environmental concerns. It still provides information and support to report litter problems today. Since it began, the organisation has grown and developed significantly to become a key environmental partner in Sandwell. Over 100,000 children and adults have taken part in a Litter Watch activity, workshop, scheme or volunteering opportunity.

Litter Watch encourages individuals, schools and local businesses to help keep communities clean, green and litter free.

Sandwell Council’s Social Value Team recently matched MCP Property Services with Litter Watch to help it maintain the West Bromwich allotment.

MCP Property Services

Established in 1978, MCP Property Services carries out responsive repairs, voids and planned works in social housing projects across the country, from its base in Hertford. As a contractor on a voids contract in Sandwell, it was keen to fulfil its social value commitment to its local communities.

Polytunnels and pumpkins

MCP’s business development manager Rosie Hughes worked with Litter Watch to support the community allotment programme. Together they raised funds for a new polytunnel cover, high planters and a timber frame for pumpkins to be planted in for autumn 2024.    

All the seasonal produce grown on the allotment is donated to food pantries, pay-as-you-feel cafes and other community ventures. But it doesn’t only provide food for the local community – it brings joy to all who work and visit it. 

The allotment is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the town. It is a haven of peace and tranquillity for its volunteers, most of whom are keen gardeners or learning about gardening.  

Working with local schools

The allotment also offers opportunities to local children to encourage them to learn about sustainable living. During term time it will open to school groups for children to explore the colourful world of organic vegetables and fruits.  

Litter Watch’s chief officer Alicia Wingfield expressed her gratitude to Rosie from MCP and Karen from the Sandwell Council social value team. She said: “Thank you for making this happen to both MCP and Sandwell’s social value team. Thank you for matchmaking us with a great advocate to help us. Your support means a great deal to us. We are truly grateful for the difference it has made to our allotment.”

To find out how your Sandwell business can give back to the community visit our social value page.