Our Impact

Social value is what sets us apart

Our Impact

Success isn’t just what we build, it’s the impact we make along the way

Our Impact

It’s not just what we do, it’s who we are

Proudly Creating Lasting Social, Economic and Environmental Impact for our Clients and Communities

With a strong regional footprint, a deep knowledge of local priorities and a diverse client base, we take an informed approach to social value delivery through our Constructing Local strategy.

We collaborate to understand community priorities, shape our commitments around the needs of each area and mobilise quickly with tailored solutions that make a real difference.

From local job creation and skills development to community engagement and carbon reduction, Constructing Local is how we turn commitment into action, and delivery into real value for our clients and their communities.

We tailor solutions around four ‘E’ themes: Employment, Education, Engagement and Economy.

We are proud of our ‘E’s, what they stand for and what they deliver; they set us apart from our competition and represent one of the most comprehensive social value offers in the construction industry.

Our Impact

Constructing Local Strategy

At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to creating meaningful local employment opportunities. We believe in unlocking potential and transforming lives through skills, training, and support, ensuring that everyone has the chance to succeed.

Through targeted interventions, we empower individuals from all walks of life – from apprentices and Armed Forces leavers to those furthest from the job market – giving them the tools, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive. Our approach is about more than recruitment; it’s about building careers and futures.

Our bespoke programmes, including initiatives such as Constructing Careers and Soldiers to Site, are designed to remove barriers, deliver essential training, and provide employability support. We go further by ringfencing roles to guarantee real opportunities for local people, ensuring that our projects create tangible benefits for the communities we serve.

This isn’t just about jobs – it’s about building a legacy of skilled talent that strengthens communities and drives the construction industry forward. Every project we deliver leaves behind more than bricks and mortar; it leaves behind a future full of possibilities for local people.

For over 20 years, our award-winning programmes have opened doors and shaped futures by showcasing the diverse careers available in construction. We’re committed to helping students develop transferable skills, challenge stereotypes, and connect classroom learning to real-life opportunities through a construction lens.

Our initiatives go beyond traditional engagement. From early years STEM activities that spark curiosity to employability programmes that build confidence and practical skills - we create experiences that inspire ambition and broaden horizons. By integrating curriculum subjects with hands-on insights, we help young people understand how their studies translate into meaningful careers.

Through strong partnerships with schools, colleges, and educators, we work collaboratively to raise aspirations and promote construction as a rewarding, inclusive, and future-focused industry.

Together, we’re building more than structures – we’re building confidence, ambition, and a pipeline of skilled talent that will shape communities for years to come.

We believe true community engagement goes far beyond consultation – it’s about creating lasting impact and genuine partnerships that strengthen neighbourhoods and empower local voices. Our approach ensures communities are not just informed, but actively involved in shaping the outcomes that matter most.

From volunteering initiatives and grant funding to resident support and local events, we work closely with clients and stakeholders to build strong, positive relationships that endure long after project completion.

Our Meet the Contractor sessions and community consultations do more than share information – they provide a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and co-creation. By listening to residents and using local knowledge, we shape our place-based social value offer to target areas of greatest need and deliver maximum benefit.

This proactive approach improves local outcomes, supports wellbeing, and contributes to safer, stronger, and more resilient neighbourhoods during and after construction. Every project we deliver leaves behind more than infrastructure – it leaves behind a legacy of trust, opportunity, and community strength.

Every scheme we deliver is designed to create a positive and lasting economic impact for the communities we serve. We prioritise working with regional subcontractors and local suppliers, helping sustain businesses, protect jobs, and strengthen local supply chains. By focusing on local spend, we ensure investment stays within the community, creating a ripple effect that benefits families, businesses, and neighbourhoods.

Our commitment goes beyond procurement – it’s about building trusted partnerships that stand the test of time. By supporting local enterprises, we drive growth, encourage innovation, and contribute to a thriving regional economy.

As proud signatories of the Fair Payment Code (FPC), we uphold the highest standards of fairness and transparency. We treat our suppliers with respect and ensure they are paid promptly, within agreed terms, so they can plan with confidence and continue delivering exceptional work.

Each project is more than a construction site – it’s an investment in people, local businesses, and vibrant communities. We create opportunities that strengthen economies, foster collaboration, and lay the groundwork for sustainable growth.

OUR IMPACT

Read our Constructing Local Annual for an in-depth insight into how we make a lasting impact.

Constructing Local Annual

Our Impact

What Sets Us Apart

Community-First Approach

With over 15 years of experience, our Constructing Local mindset drives everything we do. Inclusion and opportunity aren’t extras - they’re built into our DNA and operational strategy.

Partnership Driven

We know collaboration delivers the strongest results. That’s why we work hand-in-hand with our clients, supply chain, VCSE’s, schools, colleges and regional networks to align with local ambitions.

Innovative Thinking

We go beyond expectations. From self delivered award winning education programmes to tailored employability programmes, we approach challenges creatively to meet local needs and maximise impact.

Recognised Excellence

Our impact has been celebrated nationally with over 20 awards, including the Armed Forces Gold Covenant and the Queen’s Award for Enterprise for Promoting Opportunity and Social Mobility.

Commitment You Can Count On

Our promises are real, measurable and embedded into contracts. We don’t overpromise - we only commit to what we know we can deliver.

Local Expertise

Our delivery team lives and works across the North East, Tees Valley, Yorkshire and the Humber - bringing deep local knowledge and trusted relationships to every project.

Tailored Tracking Tools

Our purpose-built platform monitors every commitment tracking Social Return on Investment for full accountability.

Exceeding Expectations

We don’t just meet contractual requirements; we strive to exceed them. Whether it’s through added-value initiatives or extended partnerships, we consistently go the extra mile to make a lasting difference.

Our Impact

Don't Just Take Our Word For It

Kieran Loftus

Careers Hub Strategic Lead

South Yorkshire Combined Authority

“We were delighted when Esh Construction joined our Cornerstone Employer Group, bringing valuable insight to help shape our strategic direction. Their commitment to tackling disadvantage, promoting career pathways, and supporting educators, parents, and carers has been exceptional. Through their innovative ‘Building My Skills’ programme, they support schools without Enterprise Advisors, strengthen careers education, and create a pipeline of well-informed young talent to meet South Yorkshire’s evolving skills and workforce needs.”

Sarah Beeley

Careers Advisor

Jesmond Park Academy

“Our students enjoyed the session and came out inspired and engaged. It was a perfect work-related learning activity for students that were unable to take part in a work placement. We loved having Esh’s Constructing Local team in school and will certainly invite them back to inspire more of our students. Thank you again. ”

John Barber

Chief Executive

The Work-wise Foundation

“We’ve built a strong relationship with Esh and their Social Value Team over the past three years. Their strategic and hands-on support has made a real impact, especially for young people. From funding and volunteering to inspiring thousands through STEM events and Skills Street, Esh truly walks the talk. They understand the power of business in shaping futures, and we’re proud to continue working together to drive meaningful change.”

Andy Broadbent

Chief Executive

New College Durham

“We’re proud to partner with Esh Group, whose commitment to skills development and collaboration has been outstanding. Their input on our advisory boards brings vital employer insight, helping shape curriculum and align training with industry needs. Esh consistently connects labour market demand with career pathways, ensuring our students are well-prepared for construction careers. Their dedication to developing future talent makes a real difference to our learners and the wider region.”

Keith Lamb

Social Value & Supplier Coordinator

NEPO

“As a NEPO contracted supplier, Esh has shown commitment above and beyond the obligations they make. Their impact is evident across successful North East projects and through their support for regional stakeholders in enhancing local social value. Esh leads by example, encouraging others to engage meaningfully with social value. Their commitment to the region’s needs and priorities is clear, and they remain a valued and proactive partner in driving positive change.”

Dom Horn

Site Carpentry and Joinery Lecturer

Bradford College

“On behalf of the college, I want to thank you and Rachel for the fantastic sessions this year. You gave our students confidence, direction, and a real boost in their employability skills. The advice shared helped them excel in interviews and clarify their career paths. Your impact has been truly meaningful, and we’re excited to continue working with you. We genuinely appreciate everything you’ve done for our students.”

Rosie Whitley

Social Value Manager

Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council

“The team truly understand what Social Value means to us. They consistently take a strategic approach, focusing on long-term, meaningful outcomes rather than one-off gestures. This mindset has led to sustained impact across our communities. Their leadership in supporting regional stakeholders to enhance local social value delivery is inspiring, and they continue to set a strong example that encourages others to align with our region’s priorities.”

Daniel Cherryholme

Account Manager

Barnsley College

“Esh Construction has been an outstanding partner to Barnsley College, offering guest speaking, curriculum support, and expert advice. Their commitment to student development has bridged the gap between education and industry. In recognition of their impact, we proudly presented them with the Student Impact Award. Esh’s dedication to empowering future leaders is truly inspiring, and we’re grateful for their continued support in shaping our students’ futures.”

Dr Sharon Grant

Director

North East Institute of Technology

“Esh Group is a valued anchor partner of the North East Institute of Technology, showing real commitment to advancing technical education. Their input into curriculum design and employer-education collaboration ensures learners gain skills aligned with industry needs. By connecting education with real-world construction demands, Esh creates meaningful opportunities for students. Their forward-thinking approach drives student success and regional growth, making them a trusted ally in addressing workforce challenges.”

Our Impact