Bradford College Hosts Final 2025 Social Value Meeting

Construction partners gather to review community projects and future plans

Bradford College recently hosted the final Collaborative Social Value meeting of 2025, bringing together supply chain partners from the construction sector to discuss achievements and ongoing initiatives aimed at benefiting the local community. The event highlighted the collective efforts of various organisations in supporting charitable causes and addressing skills development within the industry.

Community contributions and charitable support

A significant feature of the meeting was the donation of a large collection of children’s toys to the Children’s Heart Surgery Fund (CHSF). This contribution was made possible through the cooperation of several construction partners, including the Considerate Constructors Scheme, Jo Rieny, Ace Partitions & Ceilings Ltd, Precision Facades, G&H, and GRK Civils. The donation exemplifies the social value generated when industry partners collaborate for community benefit.

Engagement with students and skills development

The event provided an opportunity for Bradford College staff and students to engage with attendees. Construction student Joseph led a practical demonstration of bricklaying, offering visitors a hands-on experience of the trade. The session also included discussions on best practices within the supply chain and updates on the Considerate Constructors Scheme, presented by Jo Rieny and Ben Hallinan.

Greg Bourke from Bradford College outlined opportunities for employers to work with students, aiming to address the construction skills gap by fostering closer links between education and industry.

Charity presentations and wellbeing initiatives

Representatives from the Children’s Heart Surgery Fund, Amanda Warrent and Georgie, spoke about the charity’s support for children and families facing serious health challenges. Additionally, Rory Doyle highlighted the work of The Lighthouse Charity, which provides support for the physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing of those working in the construction sector.

Looking ahead

The meeting concluded with thanks to all participants for their contributions and commitment to social value. Bradford College expressed its intention to continue building on this collaborative approach in 2026, supporting students, local communities, and the wider construction industry through joint efforts.