Parkgate Shopping nets top award

Parkgate Shopping has won a Big Tick award in the prestigious Business in the Community Awards for Excellence 2012, which showcases the best of responsible business in action, for an apprenticeship programme run jointly with Rotherham United Community Sports Trust.

The Awards for Excellence were presented to Yorkshire organisations at a ceremony in Harrogate.

“Our objectives when we were first looking at the apprentice scheme with Rotherham United  Community Sports Trust were to find a programme that would inspire young people,” said Parkgate manager, Denis Copeland.

“We also aimed to build up their confidence and employability skills, provide positive diversions from anti-social behaviour and encourage team-building to break down barriers.

“Gaining this award is a tribute to all the staff and young people who have participated in this outstanding scheme.”

Big Ticks are awarded to companies who have demonstrated positive social, environmental and economic impacts which reflect their own corporate values.

Adrian Penfold, head of planning and corporate Responsibility at Parkgate’s owners, British Land, said: “We are delighted with this achievement and this reflects our approach to community investment through British Land’s Community Charter and its ten commitments, which aim to ensure that we develop long term relationships and positive impacts with our local communities.”