BUSINESS SUPPORT

support businesses in making a meaningful impact

The Pledge focuses on five key commitments: promoting fair employment, creating local job opportunities, boosting Watford’s economy by buying locally, enhancing community wellbeing through social initiatives and adopting sustainable practices. Here you can find insightful case studies and best practice examples from businesses who have joined the Watford Business Pledge, showcasing successful strategies and real-world applications to inspire and guide your own approach.

Please note Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice, and Commitment 2) To support local employment do not apply to sole traders.

Go to the Knowledge Hub to find resources and examples on how to meet the below criteria!

Commitment 3) To support the local community, focusing social value activities locally

Businesses of all sizes can play a vital role in supporting the broader community and addressing the challenges it faces. These commitments and associated criteria aim ti being benefits to businesses as well as positive community impact. Engaging with the community and third sector offers various business advantages, including advancing ESG/CSR/Social Value Goals, and supporting local causes and residents.

Proactive work with local community organisations can also help businesses with brand reputation and improved customer perception.

Clearly there are many fantastic national charities to worth with, however, finding a good fit with a local organisation for partnership working can bring great benefits to both parties. Watford has over 400 local registered charities, alongside a range of dynamic local community organisations.

Local relationships can help businesses access:

Mentoring opportunities for individuals or departments

Exchanging of ideas to develop new projects or initiatives for both organisations

Enrichment of equality, diversity and inclusion policies and approaches

As well as the usual approach of offering sponsorship, donations or volunteering days for staff

a) Embed support local community within your business activities (minimum 100 words)

Embed a culture within the business which values and promotes supporting local community organisations. This could include having a nominated local charity to work with in partnership, working with charities to plan future support you can offer, and volunteering for a local charity or community group/club.

Commitment 4) To buy local, exploring local supply options before going elsewhere

The global supply chain issues of the last two years have pushed more businesses to turn to local suppliers as alternatives, but there are a significant range of benefits to doing things. It can bring more flexibility, greater control, reduce cost and carbon impact on transit. For some businesses it also helps them launch products much faster.

All businesses large or small can consider seeking local quotes before searching more widely for supply, and potentially benefit from stronger and more responsive supplier relationships as well as reduced carbon impact from the transit of goods. Whilst some specialist requirements can only be delivered from elsewhere, there is an immense range of goods and services available within Watford and our immediate surrounding areas.

a) Include the requirement to use local suppliers in procurement or sourcing policies and state how you embed 'buying local' into the business values and operations (minimum 100 words)

Include 'buying local' in relevant procurement policies or strategies, or for smaller businesses without formal policies this could be done using case studies/examples to demonstrate the approach they take. A good example is to attend and share material about local events and activities happening in the town or using the Watford Gift Card.

This criterion also includes consideration of how local suppliers are treated, which would include requiring prompt payment of invoices.

b) Demonstrate local supply relationships in action (minimum 100 words)

Businesses can share an example of a local supply relationship and what benefits it brings. This could be related to anything from products and services or using event spaces, meeting rooms, training or a collaborative project with another local business.

Businesses should also share what practical activities are being done to expand the local supplier base, for example using the Watford LinkUp to find and connect with new potential local suppliers, or attending local business events.

Businesses should also share how they are encouraging their own suppliers to consider diversifying their supply base and 'buy local' more often.

Commitment 5) To adopt a green approach and embed environmentally sustainable practices

Many businesses are adapting their operations to become more environmentally sustainable to help mitigate the pace and impact of climate change. As so many organisations have already found this can bring wide ranging benefits, from improving brand reputations, to winning more business, diversifying and improving supplier relationships, helping attract and retain good employees, and reducing operational costs.

Watford Borough Council declared a climate emergency in 2019, both for its own and the boroughs emissions, with targets to achieve a net zero equivalent emissions by 2030. The strategy to support this can be found here. 'Watford's Environmental Strategy'.

By meeting the criteria set out below, businesses will be taking steps to strengthen their own businesses as well as contribute to enhancing the long-term prosperity of Watford and help work towards a brighter future for all.

a) Create and regularly review a climate/sustainability action plan and champion and promote what you are doing

Create and regularly review a climate/sustainability action plan, consider the areas below:

Net Zero Emissions: Work towards achieving net zero emissions by 2050 by developing and implementing a climate/sustainability action plan which outlines how this will be achieved in the short and medium term.

What can help with this:

Take advantage of the funded Watford Net Zero Initiative or join the free Environmental Manager's Network to gain insights from fellow Watford businesses and share best practices. To join the Network please email sustainability@watford.gov.uk

Travel Planning: Explore environmentally friendly alternatives for commuting to work, that reduce travel emissions.

Natural Environments and Ecosystems: Implement strategies to reduce food wastage, minimise air pollution and conserve water resources, while promoting the integration of green spaces as natural environments, where feasible.

Responsible Resource use: Adopt waste reduction and resource conservation measures to promote sustainability and responsible management.

Adopting to Change: Demonstrate adaptability to embrace sustainability changes, ensuring a resilient and environmentally responsible approach to operations.

Tell your clients and customers about your sustainability commitments and ask your suppliers and contractors about their sustainability commitments.

Example of how to do this:

Include information clearly on your website about what you are doing, how and why

Discuss with suppliers are contract review meetings

b) Governance and organisational commitment (minimum 100 words)

Implement policies and measures to ensure accountability, transparency and commitment to environmentally sustainable practices, integrating them into the company mission, vision and values.

Example of how to do this:

As a sole trader you should set out your key responsibilities, and commitments, and ensure this translates to all areas of your business.

Tell your clients and customers about your sustainability commitments and ask your suppliers and contractors about their sustainability commitment.

Example of how to do this:

Include information clearly on your website about what you are doing, how and why.

Discuss with suppliers at contract review meetings.
Go to the Knowledge Hub to find resources and examples on how to meet the below criteria!

There is a minimum wordcount required for each Commitment, this has been highlighted below

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice and adopt good employment practices throughout the business

Being highly valued by staff and known for good working practices is great for recruitment and as a way of fostering staff loyalty. There are many ways in which companies implement good employment practices, over and above what is required through legislation, which are discretionary and reflect on the culture and priorities of the business. Companies that choose to go the extra mile in terms of their employment offer usually benefit from higher productivity because of their ability to attract, retain and motivate the best people within their industry.

a) Fair wages and contracts (minimum 100 words)

This criterion includes paying the Real Living Wage to all employees aged over 18, only using zero hours contracts where completely necessary, and applying them responsibly where they are used, and engaging positively with trade unions or staff representatives.

b) Make wellbeing in the workplace a priority (minimum 100 words)

Supporting staff to thrive within the workplace helps retain good people within the workforce and helps get the most from them. It encourages far greater staff loyalty. These factors can help reduce costs associated with staff turnover and help increase organisational productivity. There are many ways businesses can improve wellbeing in the workplace, some examples are detailed in the Knowledge Hub!

c) Support Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) (minimum 100 words)

Under the Equality Act 2010, a person is protected from discrimination throughout the employee lifecycle including recruitment, training and promotion. This Act sets out the main types of discrimination, including the personal attributes or characteristics which the law protects. Good EDI practices make sure that the working environment is fair and accessible to everyone.

There are many ways EDI policies can be introduced, there are examples and links to useful resources in the Knowledge Hub!

d) Offer staff benefits (minimum 100 words)

Offering employees an employee benefits package is a great way to engage and motivate staff and provide them with something meaningful aside from their salary for the hard work they undertake for the business. Even for a small business, offering an employee a benefits package is usually worth the cost. There are many advantages to providing employees with a benefits package including keeping good talent, keeping staff healthy and happy, boosting morale and productivity, and there can be cost savings to the employee and employer through tax advantages of some benefits. There are many benefits staff can be offered, ranging from gym memberships to paid time off for volunteering.

Please go to the Knowledge Hub to find out more!

Commitment 2) To support local employment through recruitment and training activities

Exploring local avenues to find staff can increase the range of candidates companies can choose from, and can bring a more diverse applicant pool that just using more obvious established routes. Whilst some specialist roles may require a wider search, there is a rich range of skills and experiences that can be accessed through local routes.

Supporting local skills development activities can also help recruitment and retention, as well as helping shape the future workforce so that it can meet the needs of businesses in the future. This spans activities form training and development within the workforce, to doing talks in schools or offering work placements to young people.

There are more examples and useful links within the Knowledge Hub!

By meeting the criteria below, businesses are demonstrating their commitment to considering a diverse range of local candidates for roles, staff development, and supporting development in the future workforce, which should all help bring a richer talent base to support their business.

a) Consider a diverse range of local candidates for roles (minimum 100 words)

Set out in recruitment policies how your business will help local people access local jobs by exploring a range of local recruitment channels. There are good local recruitment agencies, but other channels can also present a wide and diverse range of candidates. Go to the Knowledge Hub to find out more!

Recruitment policies should support EDI, as this will help businesses get the best range of candidates irrespective of who they are.

b) Staff training and development (minimum 100 words)

Training has a direct impact on businesses productivities and performance. It gives employees a better understanding of their responsibilities and the knowledge and skills they need to do that job. This will improve their confidence which can positively impact performance. Continuous professional development can help managers and employees retain and enhance knowledge and skills needed to deliver and complete tasks on time., helping businesses increase customer satisfaction and profitability. It can reduce staff turnover and increase staff loyalty. It also helps those individuals with their personal career development. Businesses should ensure there is a plan in pace to support staff training and development.

c) Support future workforce development (minimum 100 words)

There are a wide range of ways through which businesses can help shape the future workforce so that the skills and experience young people have will meet the future needs of the industry. There range from working with schools to offer talks or careers mentoring, to providing work experience placements, to working with colleges or universities to help curriculum development.

Commitment 3) To support local community, focusing social value activities locally

Businesses of all sizes can play a vital role in supporting the broader community and addressing the challenges it faces. These Commitments and associated criteria aim to bring benefits to businesses as well as positive community impact. Engaging with the community and third sector offers various business advantages, including boosting staff morale and development, advancing ESG/CSR/Social Value goals, and supporting local causes and residents.

Proactive work with local community organisations can also help businesses with brand reputation, improved customer perception and attracting good staff.

Clearly there are many fantastic national charities to with with, however, finding a good fit with a local organisations for partnership working can bring great benefit to both parties. Watford has over 400 local registered charities, alongside a range of dynamic local community organisations. Local relationships can help businesses access:

Mentoring opportunities for individuals or departments

Staff development placements

Exchange of ideas to develop new projects or initiatives for both organisations

Enrichment of EDI policies and approaches

Team building opportunities

Sponsorships, donations and volunteering days

Go to the Knowledge Hub to find out how to get involved with local third sector organisations!

a) Embed support for the local community within your business activities (minimum 100 words)

Create a culture within the business which values and promotes supporting local community organisations. This could include having a named member of staff responsible for leading on community engagement, having a nominated local charity to work with in partnership, working with them to plan the future support you can offer, and allowing staff paid time off to volunteer and help that organisation. The activities businesses undertake in partnership with the charity can be promoted through staff communication channels.

Commitment 4) To buy local, exploring local supply options before going elsewhere

The global supply chain issue of the last two years have pushed more people to turn to local suppliers as an alternative, but there are also a significant range of benefits to doing this. It can bring more flexibility, greater control, reduce cost and carbon impact of transit. For some businesses it also helps them launch products faster.

All businesses large or small can consider seeking local quotes before searching more widely for supply and potentially benefit from stronger more responsive supplier relationships as well as reduced carbon impact from transit of goods. The Watford LinkUp Platform can help businesses find and connect with potential new suppliers so that they can benefit from diversifying their supply base. Whilst some specialist requirements can only be delivered from elsewhere, there is an immense range of goods and services available within Watford and our immediate surrounding areas.

By meeting the criteria set out below, businesses are taking steps to improve their supplier base as well as invest in the local economy.

a) Include the requirement to use local supply chains in procurement or sourcing policies and state how you embed 'buying local' into the business values and operations (minimum 100 words)

Include 'buying local' in relevant procurement policies or strategies, or for smaller businesses without formal policies this could be using case studies/examples to demonstrate the approach to staff.

This criterion also includes consideration of how the local supply chain is treated once in place, so would also like to see policies requiring prompt payment of invoices. A good example of this is to share with staff some material about local events and activities happening in the town or using the Watford Gift Card as a staff incentive. More examples can be found in the Knowledge Hub!

b) Demonstrate local supply relationships in action (minimum 100 words)

Businesses should share examples of a local supply relationship and what benefits it brings. This could be related to anything from products to services, including using event space or meeting rooms, training for employees or collaborative projects with another local business.

Businesses should also share how they are encouraging their own suppliers to consider diversifying their supply base and 'buy local' more often.

Commitment 5) To adopt a green approach and embed environmentally sustainable practices

Many businesses are adapting their operations to become more environmentally sustainable to help mitigate the pace and impact of climate change. So many organisations have already found this can bring wide ranging benefits, from improving brand reputations, to winning more business, diversifying and improving supplier relationships, helping attract and retain good employees, and reducing operational costs.

Watford Borough Council declared a climate emergency in 2019, both for its own and the boroughs emissions, with targets to achieve net zero carbon equivalent emissions by 2030. Find out more about Watford's Environmental Strategy!

By meeting the criteria set out below businesses will be taking steps to strengthen their own businesses as well as contribute to enhancing long-term prosperity of Watford and help work towards a brighter future for all.

You can view a range of resources to help your business meet this criteria on the Knowledge Hub!

a) Create and regularly review a climate/sustainability action plan (minimum 250 words)

Consider the areas below:

Net Zero Emissions: Work towards achieving net zero emissions by 2050 by developing and implementing a climate/sustainability action plan which outlines how this will be achieved in the short and medium term.

What can help with this?

Take advantage of the funded Watford Net Zero initiative or join the free Environmental Manager's Network to gain insights from fellow Watford businesses and share best practices by contacting sustainability@watford.gov.uk

Travel Planning: Promote and encourage staff to explore environmentally friendly alternatives for commuting to work, that reduce travel emissions.

Natural Environments and Ecosystems: Implement strategies to reduce food wastage, minimise air pollution and converse water resources, while promoting the integration of green spaces as natural environments, where feasible.

Responsible Resource Use: Adopt water reduction and resource conservation measures to promote sustainability and responsible management.

Adapting to Change: Demonstrate adaptability to embrace sustainability changes, ensuring a resilient and environmentally responsible approach to operations.

There are many ways businesses can take action in the areas detailed above. There are a range of examples, case studies and resources in the Knowledge Hub!

b) Governance and organisational commitment and how you champion and promote what you are doing (minimum 100 words)

Implement policies and measures to ensure accountability, transparency and commitment to environmentally sustainable practices, integrating them into the company mission, vision and values.

Example of how to do this:

Identify a representative from the business to lead on sustainability. This could be a unique job role or an additional responsibility for someone, with clear responsibilities are set out and understood by the individual.

Relevant information and knowledge to be shared with employees in a clear and accessible way, with workplace initiatives to encourage staff support.

Tell your clients and customers about your sustainability commitments and ask your suppliers and contractors about their sustainability commitment.

Example of how to do this:

Include information clearly on your website about what you are doing, how and why

Discuss with suppliers at contract review meetings
The Economic Development team have been working with the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), a leading lobbying organisation, to develop a bespoke Local Leadership document for Watford which sets out how the Council are providing leadership to support small businesses locally.

Go to the Knowledge Hub to find resources and examples on how to meet the below criteria!

There is a minimum wordcount required for each Commitment, this has been highlighted below

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice and adopt good employment practices throughout the business

Being highly valued by staff and known for good working practices is great for recruitment and as a way of fostering staff loyalty. There are many ways in which companies implement good employment practices, over and above what is required through legislation, which are discretionary and reflect on the culture and priorities of the business. Companies that choose to go the extra mile in terms of their employee offer usually benefit from higher productivity because of their ability to attract, retain and motivate the best people with their industry.

The Knowledge Hub holds a range of resources which will help businesses meet these criteria!

a) Fair wages and contracts (minimum 100 words)

This criterion includes paying the Real Living Wage to all employees aged over 18, only using zero hours contracts where completely necessary, and apply them responsibly where they are use, and engaging positively with trade unions or staff representatives.

b) Make wellbeing in the workplace a priority (minimum 100 words)

Supporting staff to thrive within the workplace helps retain good people within the workforce and helps get the most out of them. It encourages far greater staff loyalty. These factors can help reduce costs associated with staff turnover and help increase organisational productivity.

Recognised that mental health is on par with physical health for staff wellbeing, by implementing an action plan to support staff which regularly reviewed.

c) Support Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) (minimum 100 words)

Under the Equality Act 2010, a person is protected from discrimination throughout the employee lifecycle including recruitment, training and promotion. This Act sets out the main types of discrimination, including the personal attributes or characteristics which the law protects. Good EDI practices make sure that the working environment is fair and accessible to everyone.

There are many ways EDI policies can be introduced, there are examples and links to useful resources with the Knowledge Hub!

d) Offer staff benefits (minimum 100 words)

Offering employees an employee benefits package is a great way to engage and motivate staff and provide them with something meaningful aside from their salary for the hard work they undertake for the business. Even for small businesses, offering an employee a benefits package is usually worth the cost. There are many advantages to providing employees with a benefits package including keeping good talent, keeping staff healthy and happy, boosting morale and productivity, and there can be cost savings to the employee and employer through tax advantages of some benefits. There are many benefits staff can be offered, ranging from gym memberships to paid time off for volunteering.

Commitment 2) To support local employment through recruitment and training activities

Exploring local avenues to find staff can increase the range of candidates companies can choose from, and can bring more diverse applicant pool than just using more obvious established routes. Whilst some specialist roles may require a wider search there is a rich range of skills and experience that can be accessed through local routes.

Supporting local skills development activities can also help recruitment and retention, as well as helping shape the future workforce so that it can meet the needs of businesses in the future. This spans activities from training and development within the workplace, to doing talks in schools or offering apprenticeships or work placements to young people.

By meeting the criteria below businesses are demonstrating their commitment consider a diverse range of local candidates for roles, staff development, and supporting development of the future workforce, which should all help bring a richer talent base to support their business.

a) Consider a diverse range of local candidates for roles (minimum 100 words)

Set out in recruitment policies how your business will help local people access local jobs by exploring a range of local recruitment channels. There are good local recruitment agencies, but other channels can also present a wide and diverse range of candidates.

Recruitment policies should support EDI, as this will help businesses get the best range of candidates irrespective of who they are, or their socioeconomic backgrounds.

b) Staff training and development (minimum 100 words)

Training has a direct impact on businesses productivity and performance. It gives employees a better understanding of their responsibilities and the knowledge and skills they need to do that job. This will improve their confidence which can positively impact performance. Continuous professional development can help managers and employees to retain and enhance the knowledge and skills needed to deliver and complete tasks on time, helping businesses increase customer satisfaction and profitability. It can reduce staff turnover and increase staff loyalty. It also helps those individuals with their personal career development. There are more options than ever for staff training, including higher level apprenticeships.

Businesses should ensure there is a plan in place to support staff training and development.

Businesses with more than 50 employees are also expected to develop a robust 'people plan', created with staff and directly linked to the business's objectives, which allows for development opportunities and progression.

c) Support future workforce development (minimum 100 words)

There are a wide range of ways through which businesses can help shape the future workforce so that the skills and experience young people have will meet the future needs of industry. These range from working with schools to offer talks or careers mentoring, to providing work experience placements, to working with colleges or universities to help curriculum development.

Commitment 3) To support local community, focusing social value activities locally

Businesses of all sizes can play a vital role in supporting the broader community and addressing the challenges it faces. These commitments and associates criteria aim to bring benefits to businesses as well as positive community impact. Engaging with the community and third sector offers various business advantages, including boosting staff morale and development, advancing ESG/CSR/Social Value Goals, and supporting local causes and residents.

Proactive work with local community organisations can also help businesses with brand reputation, improved customer perception and attracting good staff.

Clearly there are many fantastic national charities to work with, however, finding a good fit with a local organisation for partnership working can bring great benefit to both parties. Watford has over 400 local registered charities, alongside a range of dynamic local community organisations. Local relationships can help businesses access:

Mentoring opportunities for individuals or departments

Staff development placements

Exchange of ideas to develop new projects or initiatives for both organisations

Enrichment of equality, diversity and inclusion policies and approaches

Team building opportunities

Offer sponsorship, donations or volunteering days

More examples and links to organisations who can help with guidance and introductions are within the Knowledge Hub!

a) Embed support for the local community within your business activities (minimum 100 words)

Create a culture within the business which values and promotes supporting local community organisations. This could include having a named member of staff responsible for leading on community engagement, having a nominated local charity to work with in partnership, working with them to plan the future support you can offer, and allowing staff paid time off to volunteer and help that organisation. The activity businesses undertake in partnership with the charity can be promoted through staff communication channels.

4) To buy local, exploring local supply options before going elsewhere

The global supply chain issues of the last two years have pushed businesses to turn to local suppliers as an alternative, but there are also a significant range of benefits to doing this.

It can bring more flexibility, greater control, reduce cost and carbon impact of transit. For some businesses it also helps them launch products faster.

All businesses large or small can consider seeking local quotes before searching more widely for supply, and potentially benefit from stronger more responsive supplier relationships as well as reduced carbon impact from the transit of goods. The Watford LinkUp platform is being developed to help businesses find and connect with potential new suppliers so that they can benefit from diversifying their supply base. Whilst some specialise requirements can only be delivered from elsewhere, there is an immense range of goods and services available within Watford and our immediate surrounding areas.

The Knowledge Hub holds a range of resources which will help businesses meet these criteria!

a) Include the requirement to use local suppliers in procurement or sourcing policies and state how you embed 'buying local' into the business values and operations (minimum 100 words)

Include 'buying local' in relevant procurement policies or strategies, or for smaller businesses without formal policies this could be using case studies/examples to demonstrate the approach to staff. A good example is to share with staff material about local events and activities happening in the town or using the Watford Gift Card as a staff incentive.

This criterion also includes consideration of how the local supply chain is treated, so we would also like to see policies requiring prompt payment of invoices. Larger businesses should also allocate a target percentage of spend or contracts to be allocated to local suppliers and monitor this in practice.

b) Demonstrate local supply relationships in action (minimum 100 words)

Businesses should share examples of a local supply relationship and what benefits they bring. This could be related to anything from products, services, including using event space or meeting rooms, training for employees or a collaborative project with another local business.

Business should also share what practical activities are being undertaken to expand the local supplier base, for example using the Watford LinkUp to find and connect with new potential local suppliers, or attending local business events.

Businesses should also share how they are encouraging their own suppliers to consider diversifying their supply base and 'buy local' more often.

Commitment 5) To adopt a green approach and embed environmentally sustainable practices

Many businesses are adapting their operations to become more environmentally sustainable to help mitigate the pace and impact of climate change. As so many organisations have already found this can bring wide ranging benefits, from improving brand reputations, to winning more business, diversifying and improving supplier relationships, helping attract and retain good employees, and reducing operational costs.

Watford Borough Council declared a climate emergency in 2019 both for its own and the boroughs emissions, with targets to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2030. Find out more about Watford's Environmental Strategy

By meeting the criteria set out below, businesses will be taking steps to strengthen their own businesses as well as contribute to enhancing the long-term prosperity of Watford and help work towards a brighter future for all.

The Knowledge Hub holds a range of resources which will help your businesses meet these criteria!

a) Create and regularly review a climate/sustainability action plan (minimum 250 words)

Net Zero Emissions: Commit to Net Zero by 2050. Monitor progress made against your climate action plan, reviewing and updating it biannually, and reporting this to stakeholders. This could involve re-calculating the businesses carbon footprint annually to demonstrate reductions.

What can help with this:

Take advantage of the funded Watford Net Zero initiative or join the free Environmental Manager's Network to gain insights from fellow Watford businesses and share best practices. To join the Network please email sustainability@Watford.gov.uk

Travel Planning: Produce travel policies/plans, which include targets for reducing carbon emissions, and review how they are applied in practice. Promote and encourage staff to explore environmentally friendly alternatives for commuting to work, that reduce travel emissions. Consider the carbon impact of transport from your supply chain and how this could be reduced.

Natural Environments and Ecosystems: Implement strategies to reduce food wastage, minimise air pollution and converse water resources, while promoting the integration of green spaces as natural environments, where feasible.

Responsible Resource Use: Adopt waste reduction and resource conservation measures to promote sustainability and responsible management. Prioritise sustainable sourcing practices by selecting suppliers and partners who adhere to ethical and environmental standards. Source material and products that are certified as sustainably sourced or produced.

Adapting to change: Demonstrate adaptability to embrace sustainability changes, ensuring a resilient and environmentally responsible approach to operations.

There are many ways businesses can take action in the areas detailed above. There are a range of examples, case studies and resources included in the Knowledge Hub!

b) Governance and organisational commitment and how you promote and share what you are doing (minimum 100 words)

Implement policies and measures to ensure accountability, transparency and commitment to environmentally sustainable practices, integrating them into the company mission, vision and values.

Example of how to do this:

Identify a representative from the business to lead on sustainability. This could be a unique job role or an additional responsibility for someone, with clear responsibilities are set out and understood by the individual.

Relevant information and knowledge shared with employees in a clear and accessible way, with workplace initiatives to encourage staff support. To have been awarded an accreditation or form of recognition in relation to environmental sustainability.

Tell your clients and customers about your sustainability commitments and ask your suppliers and contractors about their sustainability commitment.

Example of how to do this:

Include information clearly on your website about what your are doing, how and why

Discuss with suppliers at contract review meetings

Investigate collaborative working with other companies to be more sustainable

Embed sustainability requirements in your procurement policies and supplier contracts and monitor how they are delivered

Be an employer of choice – adopt good employment practices throughout your business

Support local employment – through your recruitment and training activities

Buying locally – strengthening the local economy by sourcing goods and services from Watford-based suppliers

Support the local community - focus your social value activities locally

Adopt a green approach – embed environmentally sustainable practices
CThe Watford Business Pledge is open to all organisations based in Watford. They can be of any size and looking to make a positive impact. Whether you’re a start-up, an SME, or a well-established enterprise, this initiative provides a platform to connect, learn, and grow while contributing to the prosperity of the local community.
Why you should get involved:

Positive brand: be recognised for being a responsible business

Productivity gains: employers benefit from improved rates of productivity when employees feel valued

Recruitment and retention: staff feeling valued and supported in the workplace can result in greater loyalty and lower staff turnover

Competitive advantage: be a leader and advocate for best business practices

Investor appeal: 4 out of 5 personal investors say that they will act based on sustainability or social responsibility factors

Build you local business profile and increase brand reputation

Your application content can be repurposed for tenders when bedding for new contracts or investments

Find ways to extend your good practice by learning from other Watford Business Pledge organisations

What you get for being involved:

Have a case study made for you and shared on various platforms

Exclusive networking opportunities with key business leaders and local government

Promotion through media and council channels to showcase their commitment to social responsibility

Use of the Watford Business Pledge logo to enhance their brand and demonstrate credibility

Support and resources to help meet pledge commitments and progress through recognition levels

Feature in the Watford Business Newsletter
There are three award categories, businesses can be a Supporter, Member or an Ambassador of the Watford Business Pledge. Organisations will have the opportunity to apply for any level and the Watford Business Pledge Assessor Panel will determine if the organisation meets the requirements.

Supporter - an organisation becomes a Supporter if they can demonstrate that they have a clear plan to meet all the Pledge criteria relevant to their size of organisation. The organisation may have already met some of the criteria but not all the criteria across the 5 Commitments.

Member - an organisation becomes a Member if they can demonstrate that they have met all of the criteria across the 5 Commitments.

Ambassador - an organisation becomes an Ambassador when they have met all criteria across the 5 Commitments relevant to their size of organisation and demonstrably act as an ambassador for the Pledge around one or more if its 5 Commitments by supporting other business on their journey. There are a wife range of ways through which this can be demonstrated. Please head to the Knowledge Hub to find out more.
There are three award categories and the Watford Business Pledge Assessor Panel will assess each application based solely on the information provided.

The Assessor Panel members are representatives from Watford's business community and economy stakeholders.

Assessor Panel: Saffron Johnson of Watford and West Herts Chamber of Commerce, Chris Luff - Watford Chamber of Conscience, Jeremy Freeman - Business Brainbox, Lisa Clark - iSales Academy and Liza Armstrong of Hertfordshire Growth Hub.
Book a 30 minute meeting with the Economic Development team! They can meet you via Teams or come and visit your premises.

During this meeting the team will answer any questions you have about the Watford Business Pledge and can provide you with information about business support and upcoming events. The team can also be your first point of call for the Council and put you in contact with the other departments.

Contact the team today to book your meeting! economicdevelopment@watford.gov.uk

Surrounded by award-winning parks and gardens, Cortland Cassiobury's Watford apartment community provides exceptional living and amenities.
Find out More

WATFORD BUSINESS PLEDGE

Designed to support businesses in making a meaningful impact on the local economy, environment, and community.

SIGN UP NOW

1/14

Describe your image

1/14

The Pledge focuses on five key commitments: promoting fair employment, creating local job opportunities, boosting Watford’s economy by buying locally, enhancing community wellbeing through social initiatives and adopting sustainable practices.

Here you can find insightful case studies and best practice examples from businesses who have joined the Watford Business Pledge, showcasing successful strategies and real-world applications to inspire and guide your own approach.

Check out the Knowledge Hub which has a plethora of resources and general business support to assist you with your application!

Background

Criteria

Ambassadors

Members

Supporters

Combined Services Provider (CSP)

HAB Law

Prohal Ltd

EMW Law

CleanTEC

ISBS Ltd

Wenta

Watford Town Centre BID

Carbon Rewind

Stylo

Resintek Services

Cortland Cassiobury

Surrounded by award-winning parks and gardens, Cortland Cassiobury's Watford apartment community provides exceptional living and amenities.

Find out more

Cortland Cassiobury are an Ambassador of the Watford Business Pledge, see below how they achieve some of the 5 Commitments.

Commitment 3) To support the local community, focusing social value activities locally

Annual Cortland Commitment Week and engage in a variety of charitable initiatives, such as volunteering at Cassiobury Park and volunteering at the national animal welfare trust. Support the Watford Food bank and took part in the Hornets Cup football tournament

Commitment 4) To buy local, exploring local supply options before going elsewhere

Incorporate a preference of local suppliers in their procurement policy

Ensure prompt payments of invoices

The garden service team is based in Watford

Encourage staff, residents and suppliers to support local, whenever they have an event they always use local food vendors and promote local attractions

Support the ‘Keep it Local’ campaign

Commitment 5) To adopt a green approach and embed environmentally sustainable practices

Have a comprehensive sustainability action plan, centred around reducing their carbon footprint

Goal is to achieve net 0 emissions by 2050

Have Beryl bikes located near their residents offering them free cycle minutes

Facilitate carpooling programmes

All residents have access to convenient recycling facilities

Have a community manager who leads on sustainability initiatives holding Cortland Cassiobury accountable

Discuss sustainability practices during contract reviews and encourage them to adopt a similar approach.
Resintek Services are a family-owned company and leading supplier and installer of durable hygenic resin flooring and Altro Whiterock wall cladding across the UK.

Formed in 1993, Resintek Services have over three decades of experience in delivering high quality floors and walls.

Find out More

Resintek Services are an Ambassador of the Watford Business Pledge, see below how they achieve in some of the 5 Commitments.

Commitment 4) To buy local, exploring local supply options before going elsewhere

Aim to pay invoices within 14 days and paying deposits and/or retainers for some services

All local suppliers are annually reviewed

Recently moved from using a supplier in Lowestoft to one on Whippendell Road, Watford

83% of staff are from the local area with 50% walking distance

Commitment 5) To adopt a green approach and embed environmentally sustainable practices

Working with Wenta on the Watford Net 0 initative

Published environmental policy

Appointed lead on sustainability

Assess the environmental impact of any new process or products

Work with suppliers who have clear sustainability policies

Seek to influence both their customers and suppliers to adopt a more positive approach to environmental matters’ this forms part of their sustainability policy
Stylo are an award-winning fabrication and print company with over 25 years of experience creating and installing retail and interior displays.

Find out More

Stylo are an Ambassador of the Watford Business Pledge. See below how they achieve some of the 5 Commitments.

Commitment 2) To support local employment through recruitment and training activities

Stylo have shown they support local employment by:

50% of staff live within a 10-mile radius of Watford

Consider a diverse range of local candidates:

- Use local recruitment agencies

- Collaborate with local training suppliers, local

colleges and apprenticeship programmes

Ensure there is a plan for staff training and development:

- Conduct regular conversations with staff to plan a

tailored match between their aspirations and the

businesses strategic objectives.

Support future workforce development by:

Actively engage with local schools, colleges and the wider community

Offer a variety of opportunities for students including internships, summer placements and work experience

Commitment 4) To buy local, exploring local supply options before going elsewhere

Stylo have shown they explore local supply chains by:

Local suppliers are included in procurement or sourcing policies

Up to 10% of total expenditure is directed towards local businesses

Examples of current local supply chains:

- Use local couriers

- Partner with local caterers for events

- Source paint and equipment locally

Embeds buying local into the business’ values and operations by:

Engaging in networking opportunities such as LinkUp and attend local business events

Partnered with local businesses to offer staff discounts
Carbon Rewind is a Watford based retrofit company which specialises in energy-saving upgrades that transform people’s homes. By improving energy efficiency, they help homeowners reduce their carbon footprint while saving money on energy bills. Their work combines technical expertise with a strong commitment to sustainability and supporting the local community.

Find out More

Carbon Rewind are an Ambassador of the Watford Business Pledge. See below how they achieve some of the 5 Commitments.

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice

Carbon Rewind have shown they are an employer of choice by:

Fair pay and contracts: All staff are on permanent contracts, with no zero-hour arrangements. The company pays at or above the Real Living Wage and ensures all overtime is either paid or banked as time off in lieu.

Wellbeing first: Carbon Rewind’s workplace wellbeing strategy includes Mental Health First Aiders, flexible working options, and a dedicated wellbeing space ("Carbon Unwind") at their Watford HQ. All employees are entitled to 1:1 wellbeing coaching, and regular workshops focus on empathy, validation, and mental health awareness.

Inclusive by design: The team reflects a broad mix of backgrounds, ages, and experiences. With a Level 1 Disability Confident status, inclusive policies, and regular EDI training, the company fosters an open culture where everyone’s voice is heard. Roles and pay are structured fairly, and internal training is regularly provided across all levels.

Commitment 5) Adopt a green approach

Carbon Rewind have shown they adopt sustainable practices by:

Environmental leadership: Carbon Rewind is close to achieving ISO 14001 accreditation and already operates under a sustainability policy signed by its Directors. Policies include waste reduction, sustainable transport plans, and green installation practices. Carbon Rewind have shown they adopt sustainable practices by:

Community engagement: The team volunteers locally and has completed a free solar install for The Random Café. They also host sustainability workshops and attend Environmental Managers Network sessions hosted by the local council.

Sector influence: Their Sustainability Manager participates in national working groups, helping shape retrofit and renewable energy policy across the UK.
Watford Town Centre BID is a local business improvement district dedicated to enhancing the town’s economy and community. They support a vibrant and sustainable town centre through initiatives that promote fair employment, local engagement, and environmental responsibility.

Find out More

Watford Town Centre BID are an Ambassador of the Watford Business Pledge. See below how they achieve some of the 5 Commitments.

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice

Watford Town Centre BID have shown they are an employer of choice in their business activities by:

Fair wages and contracts: The BID pays all employees a real living wage aligned with the cost of living, with no zero-hour contracts. Wages are reviewed regularly.

Wellbeing priority: Flexible and hybrid working arrangements, mental health resources, and opportunities for staff feedback create a supportive workplace culture focused on physical and mental wellbeing.

Equality, diversity, and inclusion: Strong anti-discrimination policies and diversity training are embedded throughout recruitment and development processes, fostering an inclusive environment where all employees have equal access to career progression.

Commitment 5) Adopt a greener approach

Watford Town Centre BID have shown they adopt sustainable practices by:

Sustainability plan: The BID maintains a live climate and sustainability action plan aligned with Watford Borough Council’s net zero goals, focusing on reducing energy use, waste, and carbon emissions.

Waste reduction: Initiatives like the cardboard recycling scheme have diverted 10 tonnes of waste from landfill, lowering environmental impact and operational costs for local businesses.

Community leadership: Through events like the Watford Green Festival and Gift Swap, the BID promotes eco-friendly practices and supports local businesses in adopting sustainable approaches.
Wenta is a not-for-profit social enterprise dedicated to making it easier for people to start and run successful businesses. With a deep commitment to inclusive employment, community impact, and environmental responsibility, Wenta embeds social value at the heart of its operations in Watford and beyond.
Find out More

Wenta are an Ambassador of the Watford Business Pledge. See below how they achieve some of the 5 Commitments.

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice

Wenta have shown they are an employer of choice in their business activities by:

Wellbeing as a core focus: All staff benefit from the WeCare Support Service, offering 24/7 access to GPs, dentists, mental health support, fitness programmes and financial guidance — addressing wellbeing needs holistically, especially vital during long NHS wait times.

Comprehensive employee benefits: Wenta offers up to 30 days annual leave, flexible working hours, life assurance, enhanced maternity leave, and discounts through Reward Gateway. All benefits are reviewed annually in response to staff feedback.

Staff development investment: Wenta commits 1% of turnover to training and development. Every employee receives a personal learning plan aligned with both organisational objectives and their own career goals.

Best practice advocacy: As part of its business advice services, Wenta advises SMEs on building inclusive HR strategies, wellbeing programmes, and benefit schemes proportionate to business size and capacity.

Commitment 2) To support local employment

Wenta have shown they support local employment by:

Local talent outreach: Wenta partners with West Herts College, offering placements, internships, and work experience for students. The organisation also recruits locally via job boards, social media, and events.

Proactive recruitment: A staff referral scheme incentivises the team to recommend local candidates.

Support for SMEs: Wenta advises local businesses to consider local recruitment options and makes use of platforms like the HOP portal to promote local jobs and strengthen employment across Watford.
ISBS Ltd has been Watford’s go-to web design expert since 2001, known for building visually striking, high-performing websites with minimal environmental impact. Their four-stage process—strategy, design, development, and optimisation—delivers fast, secure, and future-ready results. ISBS specialises in sustainable digital solutions, including 100% green hosting, SEO, website audits, and coaching to reduce IT carbon footprints.

Find out More

ISBS are an Ambassador of the Watford Business Pledge. See below how they achieve some of the 5 Commitments.

Commitment 3) To support the local community, focusing social value activities locally

ISBS have shown they support the local community in their business activities by:

Community-led engagement: Integrating community impact into its core operations, with their director serving as both Community Engagement Lead and Trustee of the Bedford, Morison and Cordery Almshouses Charity in Watford.

Digital inclusion support: Run a regular digital skills training for elderly residents, covering topics like NHS app usage, online safety, and device basics.

Volunteer-led events: Host monthly coffee mornings and educational speaker sessions, including partnerships with Secure Inheritance, Citizens Advice, Hertfordshire Police and the Watford Women's Centre.

Collaboration and connection: Foster partnerships between local businesses and community organisations, supporting knowledge-sharing and shared resources to improve wellbeing outcomes across the Watford area.

Ambassadorial outreach: Through local networking and Watford Chamber connections, ISBS connects service providers with vulnerable residents, creating lasting community value while supporting local SMEs.

Commitment 4) To buy local, exploring local supply options before going elsewhere

ISBS have shown they include requirements to use local suppliers in procurement or sourcing policies by:

Local-first procurement policy: ISBS has a formal commitment to sourcing goods and services locally, actively seeking suppliers through Watford Link-Up, Facebook community groups and Watford Chamber referrals.

Supplier relationships in action: Works closely with local developers and designers through white-label partnerships, creating mutual growth opportunities and encouraging sustainable procurement practices.

Venue and event localisation: Regularly hires local venues such as Watford Library, the palace Theatre and Almshouse meeting rooms, supporting accessible, community-oriented spaces with social missions.

Sustainable criteria: Evaluates suppliers based on environmental performance and shared values, giving preference to those committed to eco-friendly practices and circular economy principles.

SME connectivity: Maintains a database of trusted local suppliers and refers clients to them, actively contributing to local economic growth and supply chain resilience.

Commitment 5) To adopt a green approach and embed environmentally sustainable practices

Sustainability embedded in governance: ISBS's mission, vision and values place environmental responsibility at the heart of its operations, including eco-conscious web design and 100% renewable-energy hosting.

Action-oriented sustainability plan: The business has a Net Zero Action Plan covering energy audits, sustainable procurement, waste reduction, and carbon offset initiatives for the local SME network.

Green leadership and education: Their director leads sustainability efforts, currently completing a Level 5 qualification in Sustainable Business Management and contributing to local forums and green networks.

Helping others go green: Offers green audits, sustainability coaching, and website eco-reviews for Watford SMEs - helping local businesses reduce their environmental footprint and build resilient practices.

Digital sustainability advocacy: Promotes eco-friendly design, cloud efficiency, and refurbished hardware solutions across client projects, with a strong focus on reducing digital emissions.
CleanTEC is an employee-owned cleaning and facilities management company based in Watford. They prioritise fair pay, wellbeing, and inclusion for their staff, while actively reducing their environment impact and supporting local suppliers. Their approach combines ethical employment practices with strong sustainability governance and community engagement.
Find out More

CleanTEC are an Ambassador of the Watford Business Pledge. See below how they achieve some of the 5 Commitments.

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice: adopt good employment practices

CleanTEC have shown they are an employer of choice in their business activities by:

Paying the Real Living Wage where possible and avoids zero-hour contracts, ensuring secure and consistent employment.

Employee wellbeing is central, with initiatives including staff surveys, financial bridging loans, life admin support, and a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.

Health and safety training is provided by BICSs-accredited manager. Multilingual management support and translated training materials ensure all staff have equal opportunities.

As an employee-owned business, CleanTEC shares best practices with other organisations through B-Corp and Employee Ownership Association (EAO) networking events, panel discussions, and informal guidance to local businesses exploring employee ownership.

Commitment 2) To support local employment: through your recruitment and training activities

CleanTEC have shown they support local employment by:

Prioritising hiring locally, creating job opportunities in the communities where it operates.

Regular engagement with local job centres and careers fairs helps connect potential candidates to the company and strengthen local workforce development.

Commitment 5) To adopt a green approach and embed environmentally sustainable practices

CleanTEC have shown they adopt a green approach by:

Committed to Net Zero by 2040

The Watford office uses LED lighting with occupancy sensors, paperless systems, and eco-certified cleaning products

67% of staff commute via public or active transport due to local recruitment, and their vehicle fleet has been hybrid since 2018, with plans for full electrification

Support clients in adopting greener practices, such as replacing traditional chemical products with eco-friendly alternatives
EMW Law are an Ambassador of the Watford Business Pledge. See below how they achieve some of the 5 Commitments.

Find out More

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice: adopt good employment practices

EMW Law have shown they are an employer of choice in their business activities by:

Ensuring fair employment by paying all staff at or above the Real Living Wage, avoiding zero-hour contracts, and reviewing salaries annually through its Remuneration Committee

Employee wellbeing is central, with flexible policies, enhanced maternity/paternity pay, and additional leave for birthdays, volunteering, and charity work

Diversify, equity and inclusion is embedded in all aspects of work life

Commitment 4) Support local employment and workforce development

EMW Law have shown they support local employment and workforce development by:

Recruiting locally for its Watford office and engages with local schools, colleges, and One YMCA initiatives to provide work experience and training opportunities

Structured career pathways and apprenticeships allows staff to progress from school to solicitor level or within business support roles, with clear expectations for promotions based on performances, skills and alignment with company values

Summer placements and school/university visits allow students to experience practical work, develop skills and understand career pathways in law and business support roles
Prohal Ltd are a chartered accountants who believe in building a trusting relationship with their clients and business. Their motto is to grow with you and help your business rise above and reach its goals.

Find out More

Prohal Ltd are an Ambassador of the Watford Business Pledge. See below how they achieve some of the 5 Commitments.

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice: adopt good employment practices

Prohal Ltd have shown they are an employer of choice in their business activities by:

Ensure fair employment by paying all staff at or above the Real Living Wage and never using zero-hour contracts, providing stability and job security

Employee wellbeing is central, with flexible working options, mental health support, regular wellbeing check0ins and manager training to support staff needs

Diversity, Equality & Inclusion is embedded in all operations, with fair recruitment, promotion and training processes, regular EDI training and a zero-tolerance policy for harassment and discrimination

Commitment 3) To support the local community, focusing social value activities locally

Prohal Ltd have shown they support the local community by:

Dedicating a staff member to lead community engagement and works closely with a nominated local charity for ongoing support aligned with both parties' objectives

Employees are encouraged to participate in local volunteering and initiatives, and the company shares best practices with other businesses to strengthen social value locally

Community engagement is actively communicated internally to foster a culture of giving back and shared responsibility

Commitment 5) To adopt a green approach and embed environmentally sustainable practices

Prohal Ltd have shown they adopt a green approach by:

Implementing a comprehensive sustainability action plan, including energy efficiency, aero waste policies, responsible water and food usage and monitoring progress annually

Travel planning encourages public transport, cycling, car sharing and remote working to reduce emissions and the workplace integrates green spaces to support biodiversity

Sustainability is embedded at all levels, with leadership oversight, clear communication with staff, clients and suppliers, and ambassador activities helping other businesses adopt greener practices
HAB Law specialise in family law and are committed to making a positive difference and increasing access to justice for all members of society, in a more kind, collaborative and digital way

Find out More

HAB Law are an Ambassador of the Watford Business Pledge. See below how they achieve some of the 5 Commitments.

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice: adopt good employment practices

HAB Law have shown they are an employer of choice in their business activities by:

Ensure secure and fair employment by paying the Real Living age, avoiding zero-hour contracts, and providing hybrid and flexible working arrangements that support staff wellbeing

Employee wellbeing is prioritised through welfare support, access to HR services when personal challenges arise, and an internal culture that encourages open communication and proactive care

Growth and development are supported trough structured career progression, annual appraisals, leadership training and a commitment to inclusivity, fairness and equal opportunities for all employees

Commitment 3) To support the local community, focusing social value activities locally

HAB Law have shown they support the local community by:

Supporting the local community through charity partnerships, fundraising, voluntary legal services and free advice sessions for residents and community groups that would otherwise struggle to access support

Staff are encouraged to take part in local volunteering, community engagement initiatives and charity events, helping build strong relationships with local organisations

The firm champions local causes by offering skills-based support, participating in local networks, and ensuring its community activities respond to the needs of Watford residents and local area

Commitment 5) To adopt a green approach and embed environmentally sustainable practices

HAB Law have shown they adopt a green approach by:

Developing a sustainability plan supported by hybrid working, reduced office travel, energy efficient behaviours and responsible waste and recycling processes

Integrate environmental responsibility into procurement, opting for more sustainable suppliers and materials while encouraging eco-friendly choices across day-to-day operations

Begun the process of working towards B Corp certification, reflecting its long-term commitments to improved environmental performance and sustainability standards
The Combined Service Provider (CSP) has been operating for over 30 years. They specialise in providing services to venues and static sites including car parking, internal and external traffic management, security, stewarding and consultancy services. CSP have added numerous prestigious clients in their portfolio and now provide a range of services to some of the UK’s most memorable sporting and entertainment events and venues.

Find out More

CSP are an Ambassador of the Watford Business Pledge. See below how they achieve some of the 5 Commitments.

Commitment 3) To support the local community, focusing social value activities locally

CSP have shown they support the local community in their business activities by:

Collaborating with a local charity every year to plan the future support they can offer. For example, they organise:

- Fundraisers

- Volunteering events

- In-kind contributions

Set measurable targets to ensure they deliver real value

Implement social value in procurement policies

Partner with social enterprises

Offer mentoring where senior staff provide guidance to leaders of local organisations

Commitment 4) To buy local, exploring local supply options before going elsewhere

CSP have shown they include requirements to use local suppliers in procurement or sourcing policies by:

Stating that local suppliers should be considered when sourcing goods and services

Explore local supply options before engaging with national or international suppliers

We Are Acuity have over 25 years' experience of turning national and global brands' marketing messages into powerful local campaigns that adapt effectively across networks.

Find out More

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice and adopt good employment practices throughout the business

We Are Acuity have shown they are an Employer of Choice by:

Ensuring all new starters over the age of 18 receive the real living wage

Those joining with previous experience receive a competitive salary based off industry salary levels and annual benchmarking using industry bodies.

They offer staff benefits such as:

- Flexible working hours

- Implemented a strict no-email-after-6pm policy to ensure their staff can fully

enjoy their personal time.

- Embrace hybrid working environments

Commitment 5) To adopt a green approach and embed environmentally sustainable practices

We Are Acuity have shown how they Adopt a Greener Approach by:

In the final stages of their carbon footprint assessment for 2022 since joining Wenta's Watford Net Zero initiative

Committed to being Net Zero by 2030

Collected a substantial amount of data in Scope 1 and Scope 2

Will use the data collected from their carbon footprint assessment and their Scope 1 and 2 data as a base for their future reporting

Have a designated team member whose role is to drive initiatives, monitor advancements and integrate sustainable practices

- Having this role ensures the company can have a dedicated focus on

sustainability, progress continuously and capture data accurately.
Hillier Hopkins Chartered Accountants and Tax Advisors have been around since 1933. They have a team of over 250 people and deliver their ethos of "friendly expertise" and work hard to make sure that their clients prosper above all else.

Find out More

Hillier Hopkins are Members of the Watford Business Pledge. See below how they have met some of the Watford Business Pledge Commitments.

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice and adopt good employment practices throughout the business

Hillier Hopkins have shown they are an Employer of Choice by:

Ensuring the majority of staff receive a competitive market salary, which is regularly reviewed

Employees receive benefits including a Christmas bonus, summer bonus, pension contribution above the minimum, group income protection, and private medical insurance.

The firm has Mental Health First Aiders at all three offices and an employee assistance programme covering mental health, anxiety, financial, divorce, bereavement and more

Policies covering equality, diversity, inclusion, anti-harassment and dignity at work are actively communicated and reinforced with regular training.

Hillier Hopkins holds Investor in People Gold accreditation and was named one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work (Medium Company) 2025

Commitment 2) To support local employment: through your recruitment and training activities

Hillier Hopkins have shown how they support local employment by:

They use diverse channels including job boards, LinkedIn, local colleges and universities, apprenticeship providers, recruitment agencies, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds

The firm regularly accepts work experience students of various ages

Training is delivered through face-to-face learning, webinars, coaching, mentoring, online modules, specialist seminars, and recorded sessions with CPD tracked for al staff including support teams

Annual conferences to develop soft skills

Commitment 5) To adopt a green approach: embed environmentally sustainable practices

Hillier Hopkins have shown how they adopt a green approach by:

A structured sustainability action plan was developed with Sustainability X, informed by carbon footprint measurement and supported by hybrid working, cycle-to-work and electric vehicle initiatives to reduce travel emissions

Sustainability performance is reviewed annually by Natural Distinction and supported by staff sustainability surveys, shaping priorities, progress and engagement

Procurement prioritises suppliers with strong environmental credentials, reuse and recycling, responsible resource use, forms part of wider goals for 2025/2026 to lower carbon intensity, minimise waste and promote circular practices.
Home Instead Watford is a compassionate home care provider dedicated to delivering person-centred care to older adults across the local community. Their approach combines high-quality care with strong social value, workforce development, and community engagement.

Find out More

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice and adopt good employment practices throughout the business

Home Instead have shown they are an Employer of Choice by:

Career progression from within: Many office staff began as care professionals, reflecting Home Instead’s commitment to internal promotion. Employees showing leadership potential are supported to move into roles like care coordinators, care managers, and senior leadership.

Comprehensive training: Staff complete mandatory training in safeguarding, first aid, dementia care, medication management, and equality & diversity, with ongoing refreshers to maintain standards. Optional courses in specialist care and personal development are actively encouraged.

Mentorship & leadership development: New office staff benefit from mentoring and shadowing to transition smoothly. Leadership training programs help employees build management skills to prepare for senior roles.

Financial & flexible support: The company offers financial contributions to external courses and flexible working hours so staff can pursue personal and professional growth.

Commitment 3) To support the local community

Home Instead have shown how they support the local community by:

Volunteering and partnerships: The company supports local causes such as Small Acts of Kindness, Watford Foodbank, and Rennie Grove Peace Hospice, offering paid volunteer time for staff to contribute.

Staff involvement: Care professionals and office staff regularly participate in community events, charity fundraising, and selecting local charities for the company to support.

Promotion of community spirit: Initiatives and volunteer stories are shared internally and via social media to encourage a culture of giving back and community connection.
Sigma is a Watford based healthcare logistics and distribution company which is family-run for more than 40 years. They have a longstanding commitment to ethical employment, workforce development and sustainability. Sigma takes pride in supporting both its employees and the wider Watford community, while leading the way on corporate responsibility in the pharmaceutical sector.

Find out More

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice and adopt good employment practices throughout the business

Sigma Plc have shown they are an Employer of Choice by:

Fair pay and contracts: All employees are paid at or above the Real Living Wage, regardless of age or role. The company avoids zero-hours contracts, offering secure, predictable employment and fair working conditions for all staff. While there is no formal trade union representation, an employee forum allows staff to raise issues openly, promoting a culture of transparency and respect.

Wellbeing focus: Sigma’s wellbeing offer includes trained mental health first aiders, access to a wellbeing engagement platform, and a dedicated reflection room for relaxation and mindfulness.

Inclusive culture: The company actively celebrates cultural and religious diversity through events like Diwali, Eid, and Easter. Anti-harassment policies, inclusive recruitment practices, and strategies to increase diversity help ensure a respectful and welcoming environment for all employees.

Staff benefits: Employees receive enhanced pensions, paid time off for volunteering, long service awards, retail discounts, and paid memberships (such as Costco). Family-friendly policies include enhanced parental leave and bereavement pay.

Commitment 2) To support local employment

Sigma Plc have shown how they support local employment by:

Recruiting locally: Sigma employs over 500 staff, the majority of whom live in the Watford area. Many employees have been with the company for over five years, reflecting the organisation’s success in offering stable, long-term employment in the local community.

Training and progression: The company invests in its people through line manager development programmes, apprenticeships funded through the Apprenticeship Levy, and CPD for specialist teams. An internal career roadmap and new competency frameworks will launch in 2025, supporting long-term professional development.

Future workforce: Sigma provides work experience opportunities for local school students and is building stronger links with schools to deliver careers advice, especially through its Pharmacy team.
Berkeley Group build homes and neighbourhoods across London, Birmingham and the South of England. They specialise in brownfield regeneration, receiving underused land to create unique, sustainable and nature-rich places. They are currently developing a site on St Albans road called The Exchange.

Find out More

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice and adopt good employment practices throughout the business

Berkeley have shown they are an Employer of Choice by:

They offer Staff Benefits such as:

- All staff have access to a virtual GP

- Private medical insurance

The make wellbeing in the workplace a priority by:

- Private mental health support

They recognise that recruiting and retaining the best talent with diverse background helps them become a world class business. To do this they:

- Have an AD&I steering group in place to ensure

progress can continue to drive forward

- All staff are trained on diversity and inclusion

- Utilise employee networks to help review policies

so that they are inclusive

- Provide feedback to senior management to ensure

that they can be actioned to make an inclusive

culture

Supporting equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) is a priority. To make sure this is upheld they:

- Manager training is provided on how to lead inclusively

- Coach skills to empower teams

- Comprehensive guidance on how to support colleagues throughout their

career

- Regular review of all in-house People Policies via a dedicated team
Wirebox is a web development agency that delivers software development in London and beyond. Their services are based on brands individual needs and are delivered by an integrated team of strategies, designers, technologists and analysts.
Find out More

C

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice and adopt good employment practices throughout the business

Give 2 weeks notice for scheduling shifts and still pay employees for shifts cancelled with less than two weeks notice

Every employee has access to a careline and counselling services

Host quarterly events

Offer gym memberships and wellbeing services

Growth review meetings to encourage self-learning and paid training

Equal opportunities across everything and encourage this through ownership of the business

Employee awards to reward those who show remarkable work and are recognised throughout the company

Company wellness trips

Commitment 3) To support the local community by focusing social value activities locally

Work with Herts and Essex Air Ambulance and helping them with fund raising

Volunteering at local charities like New Hope

Work a lot with the chamber of commerce to engage with their charity events

Take part in client charity work
Business Together Limited (BTLITC) was launched in 2015 to provide a complete package of technical solutions to all kinds of businesses from startups to SMEs. They provide end to end solutions, from understanding/gathering the initial requirements to design, deploy, testing, monitoring and supporting bespoke IT solutions until the client is happy. Business Together Limited’s goal is to bring together top talented professionals to meet the challenges in the software industry and deliver transcendence solutions.

Find out More

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice and adopt good employment practices throughout the business

Pay the real living wage

Flexible working hours

Regular check-ins with employees to address any challenges

Have a diverse workforce

Encourage flexible working and remote working

Commitment 2) To support local employment through recruitment and training activities

Advertise roles through inclusive channels and collaborate with local networks to reach broad audiences

Offer tailored development opportunities, including access to industry certifications, workshops and online learning platforms

Encourage participation in knowledge sharing sessions because collaborative projects foster innovation and professional growth

Offer opportunities for young talent through internships, apprenticeships and mentorship programmes

Collaborate with educational institutions

Offer guidance, skills training and real-world experience
Epson UK Ltd is a site for products including printers, projectors, scanners and more. Epson's philosophy of efficient, compact, and precise innovation enriches lives and helps create a better world.

Find out More

Commitment 2) To support local employment through recruitment and training activities

Participate in carer events held by their local school and offer their advice on CV writing, interview preparation and networking events.

When skill gaps are identified staff are offered a diverse range of development opportunities, including coaching, mentoring, and on-the-job training.

Assist local schools with mock interviews for their year 11 students.

Run multiple work experience days and offer placements, student worker placements, internships, apprenticeships and graduate programmes.

Commitment 3) To support the local community, focusing social value activities locally

Epson donate vital equipment to the Human Milk Foundation to help streamline operations, including printers, label makers and projectors.

Organise a range of fundraisers including sponsored bike rides and office bake sales.

Ran a donation window asking colleagues to bring in tins, bags and boxes of food that could be donated to the Watford Foodbank. Intend to do this every year to celebrate European Week of Waste Reduction.
Mama Bear Herbal Clinic Ltd are a complementary health clinic and store. They are the go to destination for holistic health products and treatments providing expert advice, premium supplements and personalised herbal medicine.

Find out More

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice and adopt good employment practices throughout the business

Celebrate employee milestones such as birthdays, work anniversaries and personal achievements with small gifts such as gift vouchers and herbal care packages.

Commitment 2) To support local employment through recruitment and training activities

Offer internships to support local individuals

Use local recruitment channels such as local job boards, schools, colleges and DWP

Support external qualifications by providing financial assistance and flexible hours to help staff balance work and study commitments

Support research and development by providing access to their resources, offering industry insights and participate in collaborative research

Celebrate employee milestones such as birthdays, work anniversaries and personal achievements with small gifts such as gift vouchers and herbal care packages.

Commitment 2) To support local employment through recruitment and training activities

Offer internships to support local individuals

Use local recruitment channels such as local job boards, schools, colleges and DWP

Support external qualifications by providing financial assistance and flexible hours to help staff balance work and study commitments

Support research and development by providing access to their resources, offering industry insights and participate in collaborative research
iSales Academy are a specialist sales, marketing, digital, leadership and customer service training provier. They design and deliver high-quality, innovative apprenticeships and bespoke training solutions. iSales Academy work in close partnership with community stakeholders and employers of all sizes.

Find out More

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice and adopt good employment practices throughout the business

Research latest changes in guidance such as sexual harassment and will always share their findings and recommendations with their wider network.

All employees regardless of their role are entitled to 30 day holiday on top of bank holidays.

They are a small team so rather than provide gym memberships they go on team walks at lunchtime and food is provided on office days.

Commitment 3) To support the local community, focusing social value activities locally

Volunteering for team building events, donated and spent a day building a shelter for a local charity

Commitment 4) To buy local, exploring local supply options before going elsewhere

Use a local IT company for tech support

Team outings in Watford, such as the Big Blue Quiz
Leonardo Hotel London Watford is a hotel chain offering overnight accommodation and event spaces. Leonardo Hotel have 8 meeting rooms and offer AV tech and flexible packages for events up to 100 people.

Find out More

Commitment 1) To be an employer of choice and adopt good employment practices throughout the business

Implemented several initiatives to ensure team members feel supported, valued and cared for

- Employee assistance programme – provides

employees access to a confidential programme which

offers mental health and financial advice

- Monthly wellbeing webinars

Staff receive a discount on hotel stays and dining, promote a cycle-to-work scheme, occupational health checks.

Host staff parties and participate in Thank You Week

Commitment 4) To buy local, exploring local supply options before going elsewhere

Procurement policy outlines a commitment to engage with local suppliers first before looking elsewhere.

Ensure prompt payment of invoices is made

Allocate a target percentage of spend to local suppliers and monitor this goal

Promote the ‘Keep it Local’ campaign and offer the Watford Gift Card as an incentive

Commitment 5) To adopt a green approach and embed environmentally sustainable practices

Partnered with food donation programs to reduce wastage

Aim to incorporate green spaces around the property

Procurement practices prioritise suppliers with sustainable certifications and ethical standards

Remains flexible in adopting innovative sustainable practices

Designated sustainability champion within the management team

- Oversees the implementation of environmentally

friendly practices and ensures alignment with the

sustainability goals

Regular updates on sustainable initiatives communicated with staff through the newsletter, training sessions and team meetings

Applied for the gold Green Tourism certification
Reconstructing Minds Ltd works with businesses and professional to enable them to develop, grow and excel. With over 25 years of experience, Pauline Traetto has worked across various industries leading and managing businesses and people in the face of change.

Find out More

Commitment 3) To support the local community by focusing social value activities locally

Provide speaker sessions at schools, taking students to visit live construction sites at no cost to the school

Commitment 4) To buy local, exploring local supply options before going elsewhere

Any printed marketing material is always sourced locally and they hold events at West Herts College

Utilize Watford LinkUp and engage with organisations such as the Watford & West Herts Chamber of Commerce and with BRE.

Local businesses are encouraged to promote themselves at their events and include promotions in their e-newsletter

Commitment 5) To adopt a green approach and embed environmentally sustainable practices

Meetings with clients and businesses are digital as well as admin such as contracts and tax to assist with keeping a low carbon footprint.

Possess net zero, sustainability and retrofit expertise

Have an environmental policy

CITB Approved Training Provider, to hold this status the business has to demonstrate good and fair practices on how they work with professionals, partners and clients.

RWB Group is a Watford-based national drainage, surveying, and environmental services company focused on building careers and embedding sustainability across its operations. They combine technical expertise with a strong commitment to fair employment, workforce development, and environmentally responsible practices. Find out More

Commitment 1) Be an employer of choice

RWB Group have shown they are an employer of choice by:

Fair pay and contracts: RWB Group pays at or above the Living Wage, often rewarding top performers with higher salaries. All staff are on permanent contracts, with zero-hours contracts used only if requested by employees.

Employee benefits: They offer financial bonuses for good attendance, private medical insurance for fast treatment, and a cycle-to-work scheme.

Wellbeing focus: Competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and ongoing training foster employee loyalty and maintain a low turnover rate.

Inclusive by design: RWB Group employs a diverse workforce across genders and nationalities, ensuring equal pay and training opportunities for all. Their equality and diversity policy supports an inclusive workplace culture.

Commitment 2) Support local employment

Recruiting locally: The Watford regional office hires locally, including a recently appointed local Business Development Manager. The company works with local recruitment agencies and apprenticeship programs.

Skills development: Regular health and safety training—including CPR and AED courses open to staff and local businesses—along with structured leadership development, empower employees to grow within the company.

Future workforce: RWB Group collaborates with local schools, colleges, and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to offer work experience, interview training, and upskilling opportunities for young people.
Regal is one of London’s leading residential-led mixed-use developers, creating homes to workspaces, student accommodation to later living communities for over 25 years. Regal enhance community life and transform urban landscapes.

Find out More

Commitment 2) To support local employment through recruitment and training activities

Regal have shown they support local employment by:

They consider a diverse range of local candidates

Use local recruiters and have an extensive internal recruitment policy

Implement comprehensive staff training and development, such as:

Regular skills assessments

Personalized training programs

Mentorship opportunities

Offer structured paths, workshops and leadership development courses

Encourage career advancements within

The Regal Academy supports future workforce development by:

Provide training in construction skills and employment support for veterans, service leavers, reservists and their families and local people furthest from employment

Learners graduate with a level 1 diploma in construction

Subcontractors meet learners and provide insights into their trade and employment pathways

Work with colleges

Each cohort visits sites with senior construction teams to learn about the projects
Debutots Watford to Radlett helps children grow in confidence, creativity, and communication through interactive storytelling and dramatic play.

Find out More

C

Commitment 3) To support the local community, focusing on social value activities locally

Debutots support the local community by:

Actively seeking partnerships that enhance social value, ensuring their activities directly benefit residents

Work with Watford General Hospital to deliver charitable workshops for young patients

Benefits of supporting the local community include:

Better opportunities for consistency

Can raise awareness about what Watford has to offer families

Commitment 4) To buy local, exploring local supply options before going elsewhere

Debutots support local supply by:

Hosting as many of their additional classes and events in local community spaces like libraries, halls and independent within the town

Actively promote events and community initiatives through their social media channels and networks

Attend local activities where possible to raise awareness of what Watford has to offer families

Committed to fair and prompt payment for their suppliers

Work closely with local schools and nurseries

Seek local contacts through networking, events and directories, and encourage suppliers they use to consider local alternatives within their own supply chains

Commitment 5) To adopt a green approach and embed environmentally sustainable practices

Debutots adopt a green approach by:

Prioritise efficient travel planning by grouping sessions geographically and using electric vehicles wherever possible

Minimise waste by limiting printing and opting for digital communication, and when printing materials is required, they aim to use local printers and recycled paper

Introducing children to themes such as caring for the planet, recycling and respecting nature through storytelling and play
Debutots Watford to Radlett helps children grow in confidence, creativity, and communication through interactive storytelling and dramatic play.

Find out More

C

Commitment 3) To support the local community, focusing on social value activities locally

Debutots support the local community by:

Actively seeking partnerships that enhance social value, ensuring their activities directly benefit residents

Work with Watford General Hospital to deliver charitable workshops for young patients

Benefits of supporting the local community include:

Better opportunities for consistency

Can raise awareness about what Watford has to offer families

Commitment 4) To buy local, exploring local supply options before going elsewhere

Debutots support local supply by:

Hosting as many of their additional classes and events in local community spaces like libraries, halls and independent within the town

Actively promote events and community initiatives through their social media channels and networks

Attend local activities where possible to raise awareness of what Watford has to offer families

Committed to fair and prompt payment for their suppliers

Work closely with local schools and nurseries

Seek local contacts through networking, events and directories, and encourage suppliers they use to consider local alternatives within their own supply chains

Commitment 5) To adopt a green approach and embed environmentally sustainable practices

Debutots adopt a green approach by:

Prioritise efficient travel planning by grouping sessions geographically and using electric vehicles wherever possible

Minimise waste by limiting printing and opting for digital communication, and when printing materials is required, they aim to use local printers and recycled paper

Introducing children to themes such as caring for the planet, recycling and respecting nature through storytelling and play