We’ve been awarded the Social Value Quality Mark (SVQM) CIC’s Level 1 Quality Mark. The Quality Mark recognises distinction in values-led business that benefits customers, communities and the planet, and is one of the most rigorously tested standards of its kind in the UK. It’s also the only social value accreditation that’s recognised across the UK and internationally.
To gain the Quality Mark, we needed to demonstrate positive impact across a number of measures. These measures included reducing our carbon footprint, supporting young people into skills, investing in the local economy and fair treatment of staff. Other measures required us to show ethical decision-making and supply chain practices. We also needed to successfully complete a thorough and independently verified external audit.
The awarding panel were particularly impressed by our commitment to providing educational and employment opportunities across the Yorkshire region and beyond as a solution to the skills shortage. The panel were also impressed by our work with local charities and how we work within the local community.
We’ve joined a growing number of organisations, including Kier, the Cabinet Office and Places for People, that are leading the way in creating a legacy of social value as a result of how they choose to operate. We’ll now strive to gain the next level over a series of months.
Matthew Goff, our Managing Director, said, “We’re delighted to have achieved level 1 and will be working our way up through the levels. It enables us to demonstrate independent accreditation and recognises our commitment to social value. We have a responsibility to make a positive impact on the environment, the community and our staff and want to make sure that we’re doing all we can. We do this by actively engaging with and supporting local communities and charitable organisations, and working with local schools, colleges and universities to provide both educational and employment opportunities.”
Richard Dickins, Managing Director of Social Value Quality Mark, said, “Today’s consumers increasingly make their decisions based on how companies treat their staff, the environment and the society in which they operate. Through the Quality Mark we cultivate and recognise the highest known standards in values-led business. This award recognises Thurston’s outstanding commitment to create, report and embed social value within the fabric of their organisation. We’re delighted to remain their social value partner as they move up through the levels.”