Smart Garden Offices is delighted to have received the Youth Pledge Marque from the New Anglia LEP.

Working alongside Norfolk and Suffolk County Councils and the Department for Work and Pensions, the New Anglia LEP has created the Youth Pledge Marque which will be awarded to businesses who are committed to supporting the future workforce, better aligning skills with enterprise and in turn growing the economy.

The New Anglia Youth Pledge Marque recognises those organisations pledging to support the future workforce in Norfolk and Suffolk and Smart is one of the first companies to be awarded the Marque and is now part of a group of organisations that have made a commitment across Norfolk and Suffolk to help ensure young people have access to support and opportunities to enter employment, training and education.

The Marque has been offered to Smart for making a commitment to increase the number of apprentices working in the organisation during the next 12 months, for offering an increasing number of work experience placements and for on-going project work with Thurston Community College and other local schools and colleges.

Charlie Dalton, Managing Director of Smart Garden Offices, said; “We are committed to providing the training and experience our next generation of carpentry and manufacturing professionals require. We are a dedicated British manufacturer and with the advancements in design technology and machinery it is critical that we have the right people to continue to grow our business in the future. We hope that our modest contribution in empowering young people with these skills will make an impact on the economy of Suffolk and the wider region, and encourage others to do the same.”

Mark Pendlington, chairman of New Anglia LEP said: “This is so much more than an attractive logo and some good intentions. It’s all about leading by example, with employers showing real commitment and giving practical help and support in inspiring young people into work. Businesses of all sizes are crying out for talent and good skills, and for people who understand their industry and want to develop rewarding careers. We are on their side. The future of our growing economy depends on it; and the future success of thousands of businesses relies on it too. The Youth Pledge Marque will make sure that the commitment of business is recognised so everyone can see leadership in action. It’s good news all round as we set about delivering our big ambitions for growth and more investment in The East.”

Smart is keen to play an important role in the growth and investment in both the local community and the wider region. To find out more about our work with apprentices and schools, read more about our Smart Community here.

For more information about the Youth Pledge Marque please visit www.newanglia.co.uk/skills