Delivering lasting impact
Investing in our communities
At GRAHAM we are proud of the positive impact that we make to the communities in which we work, through the delivery of community benefits and wider social value outcomes. As a business, we know that it is in our best interest, both now and in the long term, to build the skills capacity and resourcefulness of our staff and supply chain through investing in our communities, leaving a lasting legacy and adding value to our project delivery.
About Impact
Impact Reporting
‘Impact’ is a comprehensive tool which allows us to measure and report on the total generated Social Value from our operations. ‘Impact’ transforms our Social Value data into a visual medium that demonstrates to both internal and external stakeholders the extent of our social value delivery and its impact on individuals and the communities in which we work.
Over the last 3 years we delivered:
767.38
Total socio-economic return of investment
469
Apprentices supported (FTE)
5035
Volunteering
hours
1630
Individuals supported on employability initiatives
Supporting community growth through employment investment
Targeted Employment & Skills Opportunities
Targeted employment and skills opportunities for local people, those who face barriers to employment, diverse or underrepresented groups and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds provides a platform for long term sustainable employment.
Whether directly with GRAHAM or through our supply chain, work experience, internships, apprenticeships and graduate opportunities all form part of our social impact offer while developing in-work progression and a pool of future talent.
Career and Curriculum Support
Our Social Impact team and wider network of STEM ambassadors deliver outreach activities including careers events and talks, STEM related workshops and employability skills such as mock interviews and CV writing skills in schools, colleges and universities local to our projects.
Additionally, we facilitate visits to sites where guided tours and presentations on our projects provide valuable opportunities for students to bring their learning to life.
Other ways we impact our communities
Our people
Steven MacKinder
Head of Social Impact
With over 30 years industry experience, Steven graduated as a Civil Engineer working in contracting for 10 years before moving into Community Benefit & Training delivery and management roles.
Steven joined GRAHAM in 2012 progressing to his current role as Head of Social Impact. Steven leads a cross divisional team delivering lasting social impact on our frameworks & projects across the UK. Steven’s methodical and robust approach combined with his expertise and knowledge of social value legislation and measurement models ensures that we deliver on our commitments under his direction. This ensures client satisfaction while maximising the benefits for the communities that we work in.
Debbie Rutherford
Head of Social Impact & Support Services (Building North)
Debbie began her career in employability after completing the Career Guidance qualification, helping those furthest from the labour market secure sustainable employment. With a passion for community development, she transitioned into community benefits 25 years ago, working on major construction projects across Glasgow, including the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Commonwealth Village, and the Hydro.
In 2014, Debbie joined GRAHAM, where she has been instrumental in supporting our Social Impact delivery across the Building North division. Her dedication and expertise have seen her rise to Head of Social Impact & Support Services (Building North), leading a team of social impact specialists committed to making a positive difference in the communities we serve.
What our clients had to say
“East Renfrewshire Council have been pleased by the GRAHAM approach to community benefits and social value. GRAHAM has made this process very easy for us at East Renfrewshire Council. On the Aurs Road contract we have achieved some amazing social value so far including new job opportunities, work placements, visits to local schools and site visits. GRAHAM have also embraced our Community Benefits Wish List and have made £9,000 worth of donations to local causes.”
Lorna Wallace – East Renfrewshire Council
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