More than 100 million generated in social value through L&Q's Major Works Investment Programme

More than £100 million in social value has been generated since the programme started.

The significant milestone was reached just short of three years into the project, highlighting the housing association’s long-term commitment to the welfare of residents and the communities they live in. 

The 15-year programme will see £3bn spent on improving the safety, comfort and environmental performance of residents’ homes.

Working with its nine Major Works delivery partners (Amber Construction Services, Axis Europe, Durkan, Equans UK & Ireland, Foster Property Maintenance Ltd, Kier Places, Morgan Sindall Property Services, United Infrastructure and Wates Property Services) L&Q has delivered tangible benefits, beyond those in residents’ homes.

These have included the Turlogh O’Brien scholarship, apprenticeships, environmental improvements, community initiatives, activities for children, support for community groups and local businesses, awareness days and much more.

Since the programme started, L&Q has been committed to delivering social impact alongside its improvement works, even including it in contracts with partners.

Social value is one of six targets within the programme and is led by L&Q’s Foundation, supported by its Community Development Leads who understand the needs of residents. Its value is measured and reported through the Social Value Portal.

In that time, 433 jobs have been created for locals, 6,526 weeks of apprenticeship training has been delivered, 592 weeks of work experience has been carried out, £532,000 has been donated to community groups, 26 jobs have been created for disadvantaged people, and £86.2million has been spent with local SME organisations. 

More investment is planned over the programme’s remaining twelve years.

David Lewis, Executive Group Director of Property and Investment at L&Q, said:

“Reaching £100 million in social value is a huge achievement for us. Every pound of social value we generate with our partners, either represents a real and meaningful difference in residents' lives or in the communities they live in.   

“Our Major Works Investment Programme shows that when we invest in homes, we need to also invest in people and communities. Embedding social value as a golden thread in everything we do, means that our improvements deliver lasting benefits.”

Stay tuned for more social value highlights on our media centre.