At Spencer Group, giving back to the community is a source of pride. The company’s commitment to creating a greater future goes beyond delivering complex projects; it also actively invests in the communities where it operates, both locally and nationwide.
One of its most recent community projects highlights this commitment: the refurbishment of a community share shack based in Jaywick, Essex, close to the site of the Clacton Rail Depot, where Spencer Group is currently constructing a new Wheel Lathe Facility.
Delivered in collaboration with The Active Wellbeing Society (TAWS), a community benefit society that works to improve wellbeing in areas where inequalities are highest, the project saw a complete revamp of a local “Share and Repair Shop.”
The space, which TAWS had been renting for some time but lacked the funding to develop, has now been transformed into a community hub where local residents can hire out items ranging from gardening tools to household appliances, free of charge.
The refurbishment was made possible thanks to the dedication of Damian Gray, one of Spencer Group’s on-site joiners, and local resident Bradley Jamieson- now a Spencer Group employee- who both worked tirelessly to get the shack up and running. Together, they handled everything from initial cleaning and tidying to painting walls, pouring concrete, installing shelves, and fixing small snags.
In line with the company’s commitment to hiring locally, Spencer Group and TAWS used local job board Signpost to find additional support. It was through this process that they met Bradley, who was keen to break into the construction industry and eager to get involved. Thanks to the outstanding work he delivered, Spencer Group was delighted to offer him a permanent, full-time role at the Clacton Depot site.
The refurbishment took approximately two weeks to complete, with Damian and Bradley working daily to ensure the shack was fully prepared for its grand opening which took place on the 27th of October.
The grand opening brought together local residents, Spencer Group employees, representatives from The Active Wellbeing Society and the local council. Bill Davidson, Chairman of Tendring District Council, officially cut the ribbon, marking the launch of this important community initiative.
This project reflects Spencer Group’s commitment to making a positive impact in local communities. By combining hands-on support, local partnerships, and opportunities for employment, the company demonstrates that its commitment extends beyond delivering complex projects.
Karen Stimpson, Community Director at The Active Wellbeing Society, said:
“We are so incredibly grateful for all of the hard work from Damien, Bradley, Bev, and the team at Spencer Group. The tired, old shed is looking better than I could have ever imagined and we can’t wait to be able to bring our ‘Share Shack’ offer to Jaywick – it will be a huge benefit to the community.”
Tony Whyte, Project Manager at Spencer Group said:
“It was a real pleasure working alongside The Active Wellbeing Society to refurbish the Jaywick community Share Shack. Giving back to the communities we work in is central to Spencer Group’s values and it’s been wonderful to see this project come together.
“A huge thank you to Damian, Bradley, Bev, and the whole TAWS team for their hard work getting the shack ready for its grand opening. This new space will be a real asset to the community, and we’re extremely proud to have helped bring it to life.”
