The North East Procurement Organisation (NEPO) has revealed that its members have contributed a total of £2.74 million to local communities in the region through a range of initiatives. This marks the publication of NEPO’s third annual Social Value report, which highlights its ongoing commitment to supporting communities, the environment, and social development across the North East.
The report, set to be published in December, covers the period from July 2023 to October 2024. It highlights how NEPO has worked with its member authorities to create lasting positive impacts on the region. Key achievements include the delivery of 1,073 apprenticeships or T-Level training opportunities, generating £31,000 for reforestation projects, and providing 1,816 hours of teaching support for local schools and colleges.
In addition, £279,000 was donated in cash, in-kind support, or through volunteering to community projects across the region. NEPO has also been involved in supporting employment initiatives, including helping 51 individuals secure full-time jobs and funding £439,000 to assist unemployed people in finding work.
One of the standout projects highlighted in the report was Version 1’s Early Careers Programme. In partnership with Northumbria University, Version 1 offered a 48-week training programme for 16 graduates, all of whom went on to secure full-time positions within the company. This initiative is an example of how NEPO and its members are using their influence to support the North East’s workforce development.
Community support projects have been spread across the entire region, from Northumberland to Redcar. One such initiative saw EDF, the business energy supplier, partner with NEPO to fully renovate the Parent and Child Together North East (PACTNE) site near Darlington. PACTNE offers shelter and support to vulnerable families, helping them rebuild their lives in the face of homelessness, domestic violence, and health challenges. Trevor Birtle, Chair of Trustees at PACTNE, thanked NEPO and EDF for their support, noting the significant improvements made to the facilities for families in need.
Environmental initiatives were also a key focus for NEPO in 2024. Volunteers from NEPO worked with Bunzl Greenham and SeaScapes to organise a litter picking drive along Durham’s Heritage Coastline. The initiative aimed to prevent litter from entering the ocean and damaging local marine life, underscoring NEPO’s commitment to environmental sustainability in the region.
Nicola Shelley, Managing Director at NEPO, said: “We are proud of the support we have been able to deliver, and we’d like to thank all our suppliers, Member Authorities, and partners for their efforts in helping us make a real difference to the communities that we serve. We aim to bring about real change, and we couldn’t do it without you.”
Looking ahead to 2025, NEPO plans to introduce a new ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Social Value Model. This will ensure a fairer, more transparent, and flexible approach to delivering social value, enabling the organisation to maximise its positive impact on the region.
The contributions highlighted in NEPO’s latest Social Value report showcase the organisation’s role as a key player in driving regional growth and supporting sustainable development in the North East.
Find out more at www.nepo.org
