To achieve the Silver Award, the firm had to demonstrate a strong commitment to social value and provide robust evidence of how it generates meaningful impact for its employees, supply chains, customers and communities. QTS Group achieved this by implementing initiatives aligned with its pledges and relevant social issues.

The auditor for Social Value Quality Mark CIC particularly commended the organisation’s proactive approach to community volunteering. From the start of 2023 until present, employees have carried out over 1400 volunteering hours to support local charities such as KIND and Whiteleys Retreat.

QTS Group’s Social Value Committee, established in 2023, focuses on integrating social value into the company’s operations. Comprising 11 members from various teams such as procurement, training, and HR, the committee ensures a diverse range of perspectives and experiences. Additionally, social value champions within the business, based in different offices, help spread the message and maximise the company’s social value impact.

As of April this year, QTS Group appointed Emma Whyte as the social value lead. Joining QTS in 2019, Emma brings over five years of experience in the rail industry working across multiple departments. Laterally, she has been an integral part of the social value effort in the Eastern region, helping to implement social value initiatives and deliver community engagement.

In her role, Emma will work with the relevant department heads to ensure the implementation of social value strategies and initiatives across QTS Group’s operations, further enhancing the company’s commitment to driving positive change.

Emma said: “I’m extremely passionate about making a difference and creating a positive impact. I wholly believe that if an individual or business can make a change for the better then they should, and I find that my beliefs are matched at QTS.

“QTS firmly support the implementation of social value initiatives and practices that better not only its workforce, but its supply chain and communities also. We are determined to help lead the industry into creating meaningful change and lasting social value. It’s very exciting to be a part of and I am looking forward to making a difference as part of this role.”

Richard Dickins, MD, Social Value Quality Mark CIC, said: “QTS Group’s achievement of the Silver Social Value Quality Mark is a testament to the team’s dedication to creating positive change within the rail industry and beyond. This is particularly evident through the QTS Skills Academy which is supporting young people and channelling vital new skills into the industry.

“Their commitment to delivering tangible social value within their teams, supply chain, and communities aligns perfectly with the ethos of our awarding panel. We congratulate QTS Group on this significant milestone and commend their ongoing efforts to drive meaningful impact.”

Looking ahead to 2024, QTS Group remains dedicated to advancing its social value agenda, setting new benchmarks, and inspiring others to follow suit. It aims to enhance its social value efforts by collecting and accurately reporting on the social value it generates.

The company also seeks to create positive outcomes in the communities where it operates, aligning with its mission to inspire and lead the way for social impact.