National Grid named champion for social responsibility
National Grid's Hinkley Connection Project has won a gold award at the 2023 International CSR Excellence Awards at a ceremony held at St Paul’s Cathedral. The project was recognised for its support of local projects through the company's Community Grant Fund and for inspiring the next generation of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) workers.
Over 320,000 children from communities impacted by the Hinkley Connection construction activities have been supported through funding for STEM equipment in schools. The education grants have funded 3D printers, programmable robots, visualisers and more.
"A lack of diversity and poor social mobility in STEM sectors can provide a barrier for those wanting to pursue careers in roles such as engineering," said Jonathan Richardson, National Grid's Corporate Social Responsibility Adviser. "The Hinkley Education Fund is helping to break down these barriers and make sure everyone is given the same access to these types of careers," he added.
This award is a recognition of our drive to go above and beyond for local people, communities and the future of our planet
The International CSR Excellence Awards were created to recognise corporate social responsibility (CSR) best practice and past winners have included leading organisations from across the world.
Project Director Steve Haskayne, who accepted the award, commented: “This award is a recognition of our drive to go above and beyond for local people, communities and the future of our planet.
"By enabling the next generation of workers to enjoy rewarding and sustainable STEM careers we can help make net zero a reality”.
Alongside the education fund, grants totalling over £1 million have been awarded to more than 70 projects along the route of the Hinkley Connection. The community grants have supported a range of projects to bring social, economic or environmental benefits to local people, including village hall refurbishments, new sports changing rooms, new play areas, Christmas lights and speed indicator devices to support local Speed Watch volunteers.
