We are pleased to share our second Social Value annual report, detailing the initiatives the Practice has undertaken in 2023 towards achieving the objectives set out in our CSR / Social Impact Policy.
Highlights include raising/donating close to £7,500, donating goods to three different charities, and undertaking almost 400 volunteer hours. The Practice maintained a range of certifications demonstrating responsible business practices, including being a Planet Mark certified, carbon neutral organisation in line with our focus on sustainability. Furthermore, a range of events with schools and universities enabled us to meaningfully engage with almost 200 young people in 2023.
Led by the CREAATE Working Group (Community, Responsibility, Engagement, Architecture, Ambition, Teaching, Environment), this has involved a wide range of activities under the themes of:
- Nurturing the next generation of architectural talent.
- Supporting the promotion of excellence in the built environment.
- Community projects and volunteering.
- Charitable giving.
- Providing architectural services Pro Bono.
- Reducing our carbon impact.
- Maintaining responsible business practices.
Beth Astington, the Practice’s Bid Manager and Social Impact Lead, said:
“Once again, our staff, clients and collaborators really have got behind Associated Architects’ Social Value activities this year and enabled us to achieve so much. We are incredibly proud of everyone’s achievements and the communities we’ve supported.”
Steve Townsend, Director in charge of CREAATE, said:
“The report demonstrates how the whole year was really positive for Associated Architects. One of 2023’s highlights was “GivemAAs” in December, where the whole Practice came together under the banner of giving our time, money, and support to others at Christmas.
“In 2024 we aim to continue our good work and add additional activities, including taking on our first T Level student and rolling out a strengthened Mentoring Policy to support staff development.”
