Avanti West Coast champions sustainable business activity with Social Value Report

Avanti West Coast has published its annual Social Value Report showcasing its efforts towards making a positive impact to the environment and society in the regions it serves.

The report outlines the social and environmental initiatives delivered by the intercity operator over 12 months that contribute towards its sustainability efforts, including its schools’ engagement programme and work with local suppliers and charities.

Designed to help address social issues and create meaningful change in communities along the West Coast Main Line, these activities contributed a total operational, environmental and economic impact worth £212m during the 12-month period. Highlights from the report, which supports the train operator’s sustainability strategy, Our Responsible Plan, included:

• Connecting young people to opportunities with the Feel Good Field Trips initiative.
• The creation of a mural featuring pioneering train driver, Karen Harrison, at London Euston to inspire women to follow in her footsteps, as part of a recruitment campaign.
• Travel Companion – a dedicated channel offering instant accessibility help during journeys.

Additionally, Avanti West Coast appointed an Accessibility and Social Value Manager as part of its mission to be a sustainable business. The role aims to engage stakeholders and staff in creating positive impacts that go beyond providing a train service and help bring about social, economic and environmental development.   

The train operator’s activities have enabled it to support local communities, foster innovation and growth, as well as reduce its environmental impact over 12 months.

To further its commitment to social responsibility, Avanti West Coast will use the report to develop plans for future initiatives that help progress towards its sustainability goals. This includes its target to create over £1bn worth of social value by 2031.

Melanie Hockenhull, Head of Sustainability at Avanti West Coast, said: “We want to make a long-lasting impact in the communities we serve, so it’s important our business activities contribute positively towards society and the environment along our route.

“Our Social Value Report highlights the actions we’re taking to drive change and we’ll use it as a benchmark to push further improvements in our mission to be a responsible business.

“By being transparent about our progress, we hope to inspire our people, customers and communities to play a part in making a difference to the world we live in.” 

Photo credit: Avanti West Coast

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