Overview
As work continues on the Friar Park Millennium Centre, the Seddon team has delivered a strong programme of social value activities, supporting local residents, engaging community organisations, and contributing to lasting social, economic, and environmental benefits.
Environmental Volunteering
To celebrate World Sustainability Day, members of the project team and Seddon’s Net Zero Heroes volunteered with Sandwell Council at West Smethwick Park. Tasks included planting, maintenance and general improvement works across the newly Green Flag–awarded park. Their efforts will contribute to a healthier, more enjoyable green space for residents in the months ahead.
Improving Lives / Social Wellbeing
Seddon partnered with Volunteer It Yourself (VIY) to expand the music studio at Coneygre Youth Arts Centre in Tipton, a creative space run by Sandwell Youth Services. As demand for the studio continues to grow, an adjoining room will be converted into a new studio space, along with improvements to the front of the building. VIY is a social enterprise that helps 14–24 year olds develop practical trade skills by refurbishing community spaces, with many participants being care-experienced. The project has enabled more young people to access creative opportunities while helping those involved build skills, confidence, and experience.
Community Care
The site team have completed additional litter picks around the local area, reflecting their commitment to supporting the community throughout the project.
In-Kind Safety Support
To ensure the centre remained operational during refurbishment, Seddon installed a temporary Wireless Emergency System (WES) after removing the existing fire and smoke alarms. This in-kind contribution, valued at over £4,000, included installation, testing, staff training and provision of a user manual ensuring the building remained safe and open for public use.
Engagement within the community
Education Engagement
Seddon has actively supported Sandwell Council’s Employment Advisor and Enterprise Team through their Challenging Stereotypes in Construction programme. As part of this initiative, the project team delivered a series of interactive engagement sessions across three local schools—Tipton High School, Ormiston Forge Academy, and Brades High School. These sessions aimed to challenge traditional perceptions of the construction industry, raise awareness of the diverse career opportunities available, and showcase the full range of roles—from on-site trades to professional, technical, and specialist positions—accessible to young people from all backgrounds.
Local Skills & Employment
Working in partnership with Sandwell Council, the project has facilitated work experience placements for local NEET residents throughout December, providing valuable exposure to careers within the construction industry and supporting the development of key employability skills. In addition, Seddon has collaborated closely with Sandwell Council Employment & Skills through the Trailblazer programme to promote local employment and skills development. The project has also supported apprentices working on site, offering them practical, hands-on experience that has contributed significantly to their professional development and progression within the construction industry. Together, these initiatives have strengthened links between the project team, the local authority, and the wider community, ensuring that the benefits of the scheme extend beyond the delivery of the physical works and create lasting economic and social value for the area.
Seddon have been extremely supportive throughout the refurbishment work at the Friar Park Millennium Centre. From the beginning of the project, they have kept us fully informed and updated at every stage, ensuring we always knew what work was being carried out and when. Their communication has been clear, timely, and very professional, which has helped us plan our day-to-day operations around the ongoing refurbishment with minimal disruption.
The Seddon team have been approachable, reliable, and always willing to explain the progress of the work or address any questions we had. Their efforts to keep us in the loop have made a real difference, giving us confidence and reassurance throughout the refurbishment process.
We truly appreciate their dedication, support, and commitment to maintaining a positive working relationship. Seddon have been a credit to the project, and we are grateful for the excellent service they have provided.
SAMANTHA BRADSHAW
Centre Manager
Friar Park Millennium Centre
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
