Through the foundation the business has pledged to donate £100,000 to worthwhile causes every year, with beneficiaries nominated by employees.

Established by the owners of the business and managed by a steering group made up of Gleeds employees from across the UK, the Foundation will operate independently from the rest of the organisation.

In creating this stand-alone entity, Gleeds hopes to strengthen and streamline its charitable giving, focusing on awarding grants to charities who have a demonstrable track record in creating opportunities for young people aged 12 to 25 years old.

In the foundation’s first 12 months, funds will be allocated solely to UK registered charities, with a view to expanding its remit globally over time. In addition to supporting two headline charities each year, the Foundation will also match employee fundraising efforts at a local level to ensure the continuation of support for community schemes, and a dedicated relief fund, enabling a swift response to international disasters.

Graham Harle, CEO of Gleeds welcomed the initiative, he said: “The launch of the Gleeds Foundation marks the next phase in our development as business that places social responsibility at the heart of our ethos and I’m incredibly proud of our colleagues’ enthusiasm and generosity in driving this initiative. We believe that every young person deserves to be given the tools they need to succeed so, together with our charity partners, the Foundation will seek to create opportunities for them to build their skills, confidence, and resilience as they work towards a brighter future.”

Gleeds’ head of ESG, Michelle Regent added: “Since its inception in 1885, Gleeds has seen the world around it change beyond all recognition, however our commitment to giving back to the communities in which we work has remained a constant. We’re delighted that, through the Foundation, we’re able to deliver vital funding to schemes which provide life-changing support to the young people who will shape tomorrow.”