Success for Major Works Investment programme partners at Social Value awards

Three of our Major Works partners were celebrated at this year’s annual Social Value Supply Chain Awards.

The awards recognise supply chain partners that show a deep commitment to social value, by delivering impactful projects, contributing resources, and creating opportunities within local communities.

Our partners, Durkan, WPS and Axis were shortlisted for their work in partnership with us, and we’re thrilled to share that WPS won in two categories.

WPS scooped awards for Best Employment and Training Initiative for its work experience programme, and Best Innovation Initiative for its Suicide Prevention Week events.

Durkan was highly commended in the Best Employment and Training Initiative for its retrofit skills bootcamp, and Axis was highly commended in the Excellence award for Best social value champion.

Joe Ibrahim, Managing Director of Projects at Axis, was also given the rising star accolade for Best Social Value leader.

The awards were organised by Social Value Leadership Group (SVLG), which is a network of social value leads from over 70 housing associations, local authorities, and other organisations working within the housing sector.

Together, they look at ways to maximise social value delivery, share best practice, knowledge, and expertise, set standards and elevate the social value expectations of the housing sector.

The group also works to grow its collective influence to solve challenges, drive positive change and create a better future for the communities and residents they serve, measuring and communicating the collective impact of its efforts.

The awards, which were held at The National Gallery, were co-hosted and sponsored by L&Q, and residents took part in the judging panel, and presented awards.

David Lewis, Executive Group Director of Property and Investment at L&Q, also hosted a fundraiser as part of the event and one of our Turlough O’Brien scholars delivered a speech.

Matthew Corbett, Director of the Foundation at L&Q, said:

“Our Major Works partners have set a fantastic standard for social value in the communities we serve, and I’m thrilled that this has been recognised.

“The amazing work they do, in partnership with our Foundation, makes such a profound impact on residents’ lives, and shows the power of collaboration.”

Simone Taylor, Social Value Manager at Wates, said:

“We’re incredibly proud to have been recognised for our commitment to social value. Winning these awards for our work experience programme and Suicide Prevention Week shows the real impact we can make when we work together to support communities.

"At WPS, we believe in creating opportunities and driving positive change, and this recognition motivates us to keep pushing for even greater outcomes.”

Elise John-Lewis, Head of Social Impact at Axis, said:

“Axis Europe is deeply honoured to be recognised for our Social Value efforts and partnership with L&Q. From the very start, our aim has been ambitious: to build stronger, inclusive communities where people feel valued, heard, and connected.

“This recognition reaffirms that when we listen, collaborate and put people at the heart of our work, we can truly positively impact lives. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved together."