College supports local food bank

24th November 2023

Stratford-upon-Avon College were thrilled to be able to support a local charity recently as they nominated Stratford-upon-Avon Foodbank as the beneficiary of a £2,000 donation.

When choosing to work with contractors, the College ensures prospective suppliers have a focus on social responsibility. The College has worked with O’Brien Contractors Ltd recently as part of a campus redevelopment featuring a large-scale landscaping project, developing a ‘green heart’ for the campus, significant underground drainage works, new lighting, creation of a zen garden and more.

Part of O’Brien Contractors company ethos is to support local projects and ask the clients they work with how best they can help support the local community. The College nominated the local food bank as it would have a direct positive impact to the Stratford-upon-Avon community.

college and obriens donate to foodbank with giant cheque
Alan Hasting (College's Director of Operations), Stuart Chamberlain (Executive Director of O'Brien Contractors Ltd) Sarah Crompton (Assistant Foodbank Manager) and Kate Morris (Foodbank Manager) were present at the presentation of the donation

Social value in public sector procurement is crucial for fostering community well-being, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. This approach ensures that procurement decisions go beyond immediate needs, contributing positively to society and aligning with broader social objectives.

Alan Hastings, Director of Operations for the College, was pleased that the College could assist the Foodbank: “Supporting a local food bank is a testament to our college’s commitment to community welfare and consistent with our core values of being caring and responsible. By contributing to this vital resource, we foster a culture of compassion and address food insecurity, positively impacting our neighbours and strengthens our ties with the local community.”

Kate Morris, Foodbank Manager, and Sarah Crompton, Assistant Foodbank Manager were so pleased to accept the donation: “There has been a real shift since this time last year and not only are donations down, but we are feeding 59% more people. We are hugely grateful for the support of O’Brien Contractors Ltd and for the college’s nomination. This donation is brilliant, thank you so much!”