Stuart Seddon: Making a positive impact is what defines us

Anyone who has come across the Novus Property Solutions name over the past two years will know that being a responsible business is at the core of who we are.

Yes, we’re a respected property maintenance and refurbishment company with more than 115 years’ experience, but that doesn’t define us. What defines us is the impact we have on people’s lives and the legacy we leave behind in the communities where we work.

This has been illustrated perfectly thanks to the incredible efforts of a team of Novus employees, who recently undertook a two-week refurbishment of the Busy Bees Nursery in the Parkwood area of Cape Town. The project has brought into sharp focus the impact that companies like Novus can have not just in the UK, but across the world.

The opportunity came about through our relationship with Stoke-on-Trent College and is something that will live with everyone involved for the rest of their lives.

Due to budget constraints, the nursery hadn’t experienced any form of maintenance or refurbishment in years. The facility looked tired and in some areas, very dangerous. However, our team ensured that the whole building received essential repairs, key areas were painted and rain protection was constructed in certain areas of the playground.

The community came together and were quick to show their appreciation for the team’s efforts in delivering a transformation that means the children now have a vibrant, colourful and safe environment in which to learn.

Not only do activities like this impact on communities, but they can also have lasting effects on the staff involved. The Novus staff involved soon developed a robust team ethic, as they were each challenged mentally and physically. It’s this approach to giving our staff life-changing opportunities that has seen us shortlisted for the Employer of the Year category at the forthcoming Construction News Awards 2015.

This recognition, along with our title as Santander Responsible Small Business of the Year last year, is proof that giving back to communities and your staff can have a hugely positive impact on your business.

If you haven’t considered how your business impacts on the community, there’s never been a better time to start.