At Ridge, we know that delivering great projects isn’t just about the buildings we design - it’s about the positive impact we leave behind. Which is why, following an extensive examination and evidence period, last year we were awarded Level 1 of the Social Value Management Certificate – an accreditation awarded by Social Value International.  

For our clients, this recognition offers assurance that we take a structured, transparent approach to Social Value. Whether we’re designing schools, shaping sustainable masterplans or revitalising public spaces, we are committed to leaving a positive legacy that benefits communities beyond just bricks and mortar.  

A great example of this is our work with Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council on the A34 Major Road Network scheme. This project involved 12 linked highway interventions to improve walking and cycling access, reduce congestion and support housing and employment growth. Our team provided comprehensive Project Management services, supporting the scheme through the full business case stage and preparing it for delivery. 

As part of our commitment to Social Value, we went beyond the technical aspects of the project. The team volunteered 12 hours for litter picking at Woodbank Park and we donated money towards SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) play equipment, including mini trampolines, a wooden climbing pyramid, a Tuff tray, chalk boards and a sand tray. This donation helped provide students with a safe, inclusive environment, promoting healthier, happier lives. 

We’ve also continued to support Stockport Council on a number of other projects through our Ridge Next Chapters pre-employability programme. This initiative helps long-term unemployed individuals re-enter the workforce by providing meaningful, sustainable employment opportunities. The programme also boosts participants’ self-confidence and aspirations, with mentorship and access to career opportunities within Ridge itself. 

One attendee said: “Laura and Rory blew me away, what caring and compassionate young people they are, the perfect ambassadors for Ridge. The inclusivity of the programme screamed loud and clear… the programme inspired me so much that I would love to work within the Ridge organisation! I feel grateful to have been given this opportunity”. 

These efforts are just a few examples of how we integrate Social Value into our projects, ensuring that our work brings real, long-term benefits to the communities we serve. 

Securing Level 1 of the Social Value Management Certificate shows that we have a structured plan in place, backed by our senior leadership, to integrate Social Value into everything we do. But this is just the beginning. We’re already working towards Level 2, which focuses on putting our plans into action through evidence-based data collection. And ultimately, Level 3 will demonstrate that social value is at the heart of our decision-making, ensuring we continuously improve and maximise our impact. 

“This certification is a great step forward for Ridge, showing our commitment to making a real difference through our work. We’re excited to keep improving, working with our clients and communities to create lasting positive impact.” 

 

Lauren Bailey, Head of Social Value

This accreditation recognises the steps we’ve taken to embed social value into our ways of working. It’s a brilliant achievement and a real testament to the effort that’s gone into shaping our approach across the business.

“I thoroughly enjoyed working on our application for the Level 1 Social Value Management Certificate, as the process offered insight to current best practice in the Social Value space. My work involved aligning a revised Ridge Social Value Statement to the award criteria and refining our management practices. After significant research and several rounds of amendments, it was wonderful to achieve this important accreditation for Ridge”. 

 

Maya Patel, Graduate Social Value Researcher & Impact Analyst