Royal approval for Durham’s Esh Group
Construction specialist Esh Group has been given the Royal seal of approval.
The firm has been recognised for its outstanding work in supporting communities with The Queen’s Award for Enterprise.
Judges were impressed by the Durham firm’s significant commitment to helping young people develop employability skills through its range of education programmes, which make up just one part of its ‘Added Value’ activity.
Each year, Esh supports the development of more than 15,000 students across more than 200 schools, as a result of which it has been awarded in the Promoting Opportunity and Social Mobility category.
Chief executive Andy Radcliffe said: “The entire team is delighted to have won a Queen’s Award.
“It’s great recognition for our group, and the team of talented people that work hard to ensure we add value to the communities in which we work.
“The Queen’s Award programme is the most respected in the UK. At Esh we’re ambitious and innovative, as well as being proud of what we have achieved with our Added Value programmes, so it made perfect sense to apply.”
Esh’s Added Value work spans skills development, employment opportunities for disadvantaged young people, support for suppliers and environmental responsibility.
The model involves close work with schools, colleges, universities, training providers and community groups with Esh engaging with many business partners to support delivery of the programme.