A leading social impact business has generated over £34 million-worth of social value for communities in Knowsley, through job creation, helping homeless people, investing in independent living and funding social enterprises.
First Ark Group has released its annual social accounts which details how the organisation has made a real impact in local communities, businesses and changed individual’s lives. The Group has recorded a 17 percent rise in social value this year, after logging £29m-worth in 2017 – 2018.
First Ark Group’s key stats –
- £34,036,771 has been generated in social value
- £11,872,638-worth of cost savings to the NHS, DWP and local government
Social investment:
- £1,669,000-worth of social investment spent supporting projects through First Ark Social Investment
- For every £1 invested FAG has generated 47p in social return
Employment & training:
- 17 apprentices employed by FAG
- 90 people took part in the GiveGetGo programme offering skills training, volunteering placements and employment
- 312 residents offered employment and training opportunities
Homelessness:
- 150 homeless families/ individuals rehoused in Knowsley Housing Trust properties
Léann Hearne, Group Chief Executive Officer at First Ark Group, said: “We have social purpose at our heart and use profit to enrich our customers’ lives. Some of that profit is invested in projects, training opportunities and support programmes with the aim of improving the lives of our residents and helping communities across Knowsley thrive.
“Our work stretches across generations and we promote social inclusion though our extra care and retirement living schemes and to young families and school leavers. We believe in supporting residents by offering financial and employment advice, such as how to budget and instilling individuals with the confidence to take up training and apprenticeships. We’ve made real strides this year to develop our partnership network to support more local social enterprises and charities, to encourage them to grow and become more sustainable.”
Tayla Modiak, an apprentice surveyor employed by Knowsley Housing Trust this year, commented: “My mum spotted the KHT apprenticeship scheme online and I researched working in the construction sector. I’m a visual and practical learner so an apprenticeship really suits me. As an apprentice surveyor I’m in a fairly male dominated industry but I see that as a positive as I’m challenging stereotypes.
“My apprenticeship programme so far has seen me getting involved in admin, compiling spreadsheets, visiting KHT homes and shadowing my manager. I’m hoping to develop my people skills, increase my confidence and learn to adapt to different work environments.”