PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study 8 PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark IN SOUTHWARK CASECase STUDY Study Contents 1. Foreword 2. Executive Summary 4
3. Introduction 6
4. The Southwark Context 7
5. PwC in Southwark 0
6. The Debate 6
7. Conclusion 35
8. Appendix A 38
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study For a long time, the London Borough skills and experience of their people to Foreword of Southwark has been recognised as provide support to both headteachers one of the most deprived areas in the and pupils. They have used their Amanda Jordan country, struggling with serious social investment to leverage input from The SMART Company problems such as high unemployment others, enabling sustainable, securely and low attainment. Recently, however, funded projects. Most importantly, Southwark has come to be known for they have taken the time to really get other, more positive, reasons. Visitors to know the borough and its people. from all over the world come to Tate They have understood where the Modern and Shakespeare’s Globe. challenges lie, where they themselves The riverside and Shad Thames have can have a direct input and where they been transformed through major can help others to use their expertise in regeneration projects. Education a way that really makes a difference. standards results have consistently improved over the past six years. We were very pleased to have the These changes result from the hard opportunity to research and write this work and commitment of people from case study of PwC’s long-standing all sectors and PwC has played a involvement with Southwark. As business significant role. seeks to develop more strategic, focused community investment programmes, It is increasingly recognised that effective I hope that this programme will serve social change requires partnership as an inspiration and example to others working between government, voluntary of what can be achieved. sector and business. PwC realised this years ago, when they began to look for ways to contribute to the regeneration of Southwark. PwC’s approach stands as a clear example of good practice in community investment. They have used their networks and influence to bring different organisations together and Amanda Jordan facilitate change. They have used the
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study I am delighted to introduce this I am proud to be associated with PwC Foreword PricewaterhouseCoopers ‘PwC in in Southwark and would like to thank Southwark’ case study, which describes all those involved, both within PwC Richard Collier-Keywood our involvement with our local and from our community partners, PricewaterhouseCoopers, community in Southwark, London. for their efforts and commitment over Management Board member, the years. with responsibility for PwC became involved in Southwark Community Affairs at a key moment in the borough’s We hope that this model of a long development. As the third most term, sustained and multifaceted deprived borough in the UK at the corporate community partnership time, Southwark had not previously will inspire other organisations as attracted significant investment or they develop their own community regeneration initiatives from private programmes. companies. PwC’s involvement began just as this situation started to change and focussed primarily on raising the educational achievement and employability skills of the borough’s young people. We have been delighted to be able to play our part in the transformation of major parts Richard Collier-Keywood of Southwark.
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study Introduction • Southwark has historically suffered Executive from poor levels of literacy and • This study explores numeracy. This has been reflected summary PricewaterhouseCoopers’ fifteen-year both in school results and in the support for the London Borough of long term unemployment rate which Southwark. It looks at the key elements is the 8th highest rate in England of the programme including focus and Wales. areas, partners and projects; identifies some of the programme’s main impacts and discusses what lessons PwC’s involvement can be learnt and applied to wider corporate community investment. • One of PwC’s objectives is for its community investment to focus • The case study was researched and on areas of real need and for it written by The SMART Company, to produce demonstrable benefits. an independent consultancy. It is To ensure its investment in based on existing data and a series Southwark meets these objectives, of in-depth interviews with key PwC has focused on providing partners in the PwC programme. support in areas most suited to the skills and expertise of its business. About Southwark • There has been a significant focus on raising educational achievement • Southwark is a borough of contrasts and employability skills in order and challenges. When PwC first to help address Southwark’s most became involved in the early nineties, serious issues. PwC has also been Southwark was the third most deeply involved in regeneration and deprived borough in the country development projects focused on and although there have been some improving the social and physical major transformations since then, infrastructure of the borough. it continues to be the 12th most deprived borough in the UK.
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study “Causality is a very difficult thing to trace but in my opinion the impacts can be significantly attributed to PwC’s involvement.” Terry Powley, Director, North Southwark Education Action Zone, 1998-2001
• Support ranges from providing The number of girls achieving grades direct mentoring and support to A*-C has risen from 24% to 49% schools – both to pupils and teachers in the last 5 years (compared to – to supporting other organisations 18% for England as a whole) and to deliver projects. PwC’s people numbers entering further education have used their management and have risen from 63% to 80% in the networking skills to chair boards, same period. facilitate new projects and leverage • In the borough as a whole over the additional funding. past 5 years, GCSE results have • Feedback from PwC’s community improved 44% (from 34% A*-C partners and others from within the to 49% (England comparative 18% borough show that the firm’s support from 50-59%)). has been of significant value in the borough. This support includes an overall cash contribution of Conclusions £1.75million in the years 1998-2006 and 2,600 employees giving 30,000 The case study identifies two key factors hours of their time volunteering in that have ensured the success of the the borough. Southwark programme: • A deep understanding of the community context in which the Programme impact programme is operating; and • PwC’s input has been shown to have • The degree to which the programme’s real impact. At Aylwin Girls’ School principles and objectives are integrated (now known as the Harris Academy and embedded into the culture of the Bermondsey), where PwC has been firm and the engagement of people involved for over six years, 80% at all levels. of girls mentored have achieved higher than predicted GCSE grades.
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) is now some 3,000 employees are based Introduction a global professional services firm in the borough at Southwark Towers employing over 140,000 people and Union Street. PwC has always worldwide, approximately 9,000 of had a commitment to supporting the whom are based in London. The firm community and its current programme has a long standing commitment to of activity in Southwark stretches corporate responsibility and back 15 years to the early 1990s. sustainability. In the UK, PwC takes The nature of this involvement has part in the annual Business in the developed over time, evolving into Community Corporate Responsibility a programme typified by the breadth Index and in 2006 was rated as a and depth of support. The success Platinum member and sector leader. of the Southwark programme is such that the model has been implemented PwC approaches its corporate around many of the firm’s UK offices. responsibility activity through four areas – workplace, marketplace, environment and community. Its About the research community involvement programme spans a broad range of national and In order to gain an independent view regional activity, seeking to make of the achievements of the Southwark a meaningful contribution to local programme, PwC asked The SMART communities and expressing its core Company, a consultancy specialising values of excellence, teamwork and in corporate responsibility, to carry out leadership. Community involvement is a qualitative review. The aim of the seen as an essential part of motivating review was to capture the extent and and developing employees and in a nature of PwC’s activities in Southwark recent survey, 95% of staff agreed and to understand the impact of the that it is important for the firm to firm’s involvement. act responsibly and get involved in local communities. The review is based on literature and data collected from PwC and This case study explores PwC’s long- its community partners, a discussion standing commitment to the London group with PwC employee volunteers Borough of Southwark. The firm was and a series of interviews with key one of the first from the ‘city’ to cross stakeholders. A list of interviewees the river to Southwark, initially is given in Appendix A. coming as Price Waterhouse in 1975;
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study The Southwark Context
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study The London Borough of Southwark deprived borough in the country and The nature of Southwark’s population has a population of just over 250,000 PwC was one of the first city firms to means that there are many challenges to and was formed in 1965 by the cross the river. While the last 15 years overcome in the ongoing regeneration of amalgamation of three metropolitan have seen major transformations to the borough. One of the key issues facing boroughs – Bermondsey, Southwark some areas and aspects of Southwark, Southwark has been the poor levels of and Camberwell. The borough lies on it remains a borough of contrasts and literacy and numeracy amongst the the south side of the Thames, directly still has pockets of serious deprivation. borough’s young people, contributing opposite Westminster and the City. Southwark is now the 12th most to high levels of unemployment. PwC’s deprived borough in the UK, but 15 of focus areas of raising educational When PwC first became involved with its wards (60% of the total) are in the achievement and employability skills Southwark, it was the third most 10% most deprived wards nationally. are aimed at addressing these issues.
Southwark
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study Facts about Southwark • Southwark is a very diverse borough with just under 40% of the population coming from a black or minority ethnic community, compared to around 13% of the population of England and Wales as a whole. • There is even greater diversity among young people, with over 60% of the school age population drawn from black and minority ethnic groups, with 25% from black African backgrounds. • Over 100 different languages are spoken in Southwark’s schools, and 40% of Southwark’s pupils do not speak English at home. • More than half of Southwark’s children live in poverty and the number of children in need is double the England average. • Up to 60 young people a month arrive in the borough needing a place at a Southwark secondary school; one in seven Southwark children move in a year. • 41% of Southwark’s children receive free school meals compared to 15% nationally. • School performance has improved over the last few years but still falls behind the national average. • Southwark has the 8th highest rate of long term unemployment in England and Wales, and unemployment amongst black and minority ethnic groups is five times the London average. • There are 144,000 jobs within the borough, but only 25% of this workforce actually lives in the borough with 108,000 commuting in.
“In my constituency there is a large PwC office which has contributed phenomenally to the education system, by bringing in their staff to assist in mentoring and other ways. They have made an excellent contribution.” Simon Hughes, MP, Hansard, parliamentary debate on the DfES/London Challenge
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study PwC in Southwark
PwC in Southwark – project timeline
Begin supporting Tomorrow’s People “Gateway” project Early 1990s 1996
YEAR
1994
Founding corporate partner Founding partner of of Common Purpose Southwark Education Business Alliance (EBA), Support the building of becoming a key partner Shakespeare’s Globe and and management Globe Education group member
10 PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study Shakespeare’s Globe opens and the Our Theatre programme launched in partnership with Globe Education and Southwark Council PwC supports development of Common Purpose ‘Your Turn’ in South London Since the implementation of Common Purpose ‘Your Turn’ programme, over 300 students from South London have participated, from which over 110 students were from Southwark Become involved with the Pool of London Partnership, sitting on the Education and Citizenship taskforce. Launching an annual match funding donation programme of £15,000 to the Small Grants Fund in partnership Founding member of with Southwark Council Southwark Cares, Become principal supporter Support for The Prince’s Trust encouraging employer of Southwark Playhouse Team Programme begins supported volunteering education programmes
1998 2000
1997 1999 2001
North Southwark Education Student mentoring Action Zone set up. PwC programme established becomes a partner, as well at Aylwin Girls’ School as a member of the Steering Evidence suggests that Group and Action Forum student mentoring at Become involved with Aylwin has been extremely Charles Dickens Primary successful, with 80% of School, providing literacy girls mentored achieving and numeracy support higher than predicted grades at GCSE Become founder member of Bankside Business Partnership
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark 11 Case Study 20th anniversary of the annual PricewaterhouseCoopers pantomime. The Panto provides the opportunity for 4,000 Southwark Begins supporting the students to experience Metropolitan Police’s theatre each year, as well and Southwark as providing some work Council’s Karrot project experience opportunities
2002 2004 2006
2003 2005
Initiate BRASS (Business Founding member of PwC rated Platinum Responsibility and Southwark Theatres member and sector Southwark Students) Education Partnership leader in the in partnership with (STEP) BitC Corporate Southwark EBA and Pool Responsibility Index Approximately 3,000 of London Partnership young people and 190 PwC’s London Since BRASS began, teachers participate in the Community the project has achieved programme each year. Champions initiated the following: • Young people benefiting from the programme: 400 • Young people receiving vocational advice: 400 • Schools involved in the project: 7 • Businesses involved in the project: 18 • Private sector leverage: £251,000 • Public sector leverage: £69,000 42% of participants have shown a measurable improvement in attainment PwC’s links with Southwark date back and opportunities for children and History to 1975, when Price Waterhouse moved young people. If young people are into Southwark Towers. It was in the well trained, motivated and given early 1990s, however, that the firm’s opportunities to work in Southwark, involvement with the local community it is much more likely that regeneration really took off. A programme of and development can be sustained regeneration was just beginning in the in the long term. As a firm based on borough and the Community Affairs knowledge and learning, with expertise team realised that PwC could play a in training and development, it made key role. This commitment was echoed sense for PwC to concentrate its efforts at the very top of the organisation, in Southwark on raising educational where there has always been a strong attainment and employability skills view that “doing the right thing” of the borough’s young people. involves supporting and integrating with the local community. Much of PwC’s success in Southwark, however, has been based on the depth In the early days, the programme of its involvement, not just in individual was quite unstructured and PwC projects but in the wider sphere of supported a wide range of relatively community development, education small projects. However, this initial and regeneration in the borough. diversity was central to the future Rather than simply bestowing help, success of the programme, as it raised PwC has worked carefully to facilitate PwC’s profile as a firm that would partnerships and to enable local provide support to community groups. agencies and organisations to deliver As more people approached PwC for what is needed. support and the Community Affairs team forged links with public and The timeline shows how the programme voluntary organisations, the firm was has evolved into a series of strategic able to build up a detailed picture of partnerships focused on targeting areas Southwark’s community and the issues of most need, with activities spanning its people faced. This fundamental a wide range of audiences and networks, understanding of the community and and covering regeneration, education, the strong network of contacts across creativity, citizenship and leadership. the borough, has enabled PwC to The timeline pinpoints key projects develop a strategic programme which and partnerships and demonstrates the uses its strengths to greatest effect. longevity of PwC’s commitment – the firm is still involved with all of the One of the greatest challenges facing projects listed, including those dating Southwark is to improve quality of life back to the early 1990s.
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark 13 Case Study PwC’s network in Southwark is broad support is most needed. There are many Key projects and diverse. Representatives from the approaches to regeneration and PwC Community Affairs team have been has focused on raising attainment for the involved with a wide range of activities borough’s young people. This has been and organisations, providing expertise achieved in various ways, from support and advice either informally or through for the Education Action Zone through sitting on Boards. These relationships to initiation of creative programmes. have helped PwC to build up a To ensure that learning and personal programme of activity which uses the development is sustained, PwC has also firm’s skills in the most appropriate supported projects for young people, ways, targeted at areas of real need. helping to develop employability and citizenship skills. The way that these Involvement in regeneration projects projects fit together to form a strategic, helps to underpin the development of targeted programme, is represented in the borough and pinpoint areas where the model opposite.
14 PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study PwC in Southwark
Regeneration Education Employability Partnerships that support Partnerships that support Partnerships that support wider regeneration and development education and learning in the skills development, citizenship of the borough: broadest sense: and employability: • Pool of London Partnership • Education Business Alliance • The Prince’s Trust • Bankside Business Partnership • Education Action Zone • Common Purpose ‘Your Turn’ • London Bridge Business • Individual schools • Gateway Improvement District • Shakespeare’s Globe Education • Southwark Police ‘Karrot’ • Bankside Open Spaces Trust • Southwark Playhouse • BRASS • Team volunteering • STEP • Mentoring – students and headteachers • Literacy • Numeracy • PwC Pantomime
Underpinning the programme • Deep understanding of Southwark context • Strong network of contacts and inter-relationships of projects supported • Long term relationships • Awareness of where expertise is best targeted • Extensive employee volunteering programme
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark 15 Case Study PwC became involved in Southwark at social conditions for all those who Regeneration a key time in the borough’s development, work, live in or visit Bankside. just as the borough’s major regeneration programme started. As a very deprived PwC, along with Southwark Council, area, sited south of the river, Southwark has been a long term supporter, had not previously attracted significant both financially and in-kind, of the Pool investment or regeneration initiatives. of London Partnership, another PwC’s involvement began just as this regeneration organisation focused on situation started to change, and the the areas north and south of the river firm was able to play a key role in between Tower Bridge and London the transformation of major parts of Bridge. While the partnership focused the borough. mainly on physical regeneration of the area, it also wanted to address the In the mid 1990s, PwC became a serious social deprivation in immediately founder partner in the Bankside neighbouring areas. It therefore Business Partnership, an initiative developed a small education programme established by prominent organisations with a focus on achievement and located along the riverside between attainment, which aimed to encourage Blackfriars Bridge and London Bridge. young people to build a relationship with The partnership has worked alongside the local area and feel that opportunities a number of other regeneration existed for them. An education taskforce organisations to transform this area, was set up with members drawn from focusing on improving training and local businesses, the community, local employment opportunities as well as schools, local council and education the economic, environmental and organisations, and a PwC representative chaired the group.
16 PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study The programme tested out new ideas and developed some experimental programmes on a pilot basis. The long term aim was to create sustainable, embedded projects which would attract funding from elsewhere. As well as input into the group itself, PwC was also involved directly in some of these initiatives such as BRASS (Business Responsibility and Southwark Students) (see page 20).
PwC match funded the Pool of London Partnership’s Small Grants Fund, which offered grants of between £500 and £2,000 to local schools, small businesses and community-based organisations for educational regeneration projects within the pool area. PwC has match-funded £15,000 to the scheme for each of the last ten years of the fund’s existence.
“When PwC became involved in Southwark it had a strong community programme and a willingness to work locally – the idea of focusing on a particular geography was quite unique. One of the reasons why the education programme could do new things was PwC’s leadership. PwC is independent of local networks and the education authority, and has no vested interest. It can therefore provide neutral and informed expertise.” Linda Houston, Director, Pool of London Partnership
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark 17 Case Study Education has been at the heart of achievement in deprived areas and Education PwC’s involvement in Southwark. PwC bring in partners from different sectors recognises that basic skills in literacy to help with funding and expertise. and numeracy provide the foundations PwC was the zone’s major business for long term achievement. The firm partner and was a member of the EAZ also believes, however, that it is essential Steering Group and Action Forum. to complement formal academic learning in ways which develop other skills in “The zone’s work is helping to young people and so partners with invigorate and extend educational organisations that give pupils the chance provision in an area of considerable to develop outside the school curriculum. disadvantage and is encouraging and It is important to understand that some enabling its schools to make better use young people will not engage with a of the wealth of artistic, business and formal learning environment and need educational opportunities in the area. support to improve their access to It has used its freedom to innovate training or jobs elsewhere. well and its effective management has allowed schools to benefit speedily from the additional resources.” Working with schools OFSTED inspection report of North Southwark Education Action Zone One of PwC’s most significant partnerships in education has been As well as providing leadership and with Excellence in Cities Action funding to the Action Zone as a Zone, formerly the North Southwark whole, PwC has worked closely with Education Action Zone, which was a number of individual schools within set up in 1998. The purpose of action the zone, getting involved at all levels. zones was to focus on raising Volunteers have played an important
“Every single girl who has been mentored would say that it has improved their confidence and time management skills.” Roger Hiskey, Student Mentor Co-ordinator, Aylwin Girls’ School (now known as Harris Academy Bermondsey)
18 PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study “PwC views the needs of the community very thoughtfully and are not just handing out cheques – they want to know that the programmes they support are well thought out and have a sustainable impact. It would have been much harder to achieve what we have without their support; it’s a really valuable association for Charles Dickens School.” Liz Owens, former Headteacher, Charles Dickens School
role in these schools, providing a range “The business mentors programme Young people and business of mentoring and other support. is highly valued by the students and contributes to the better GCSE As a reflection of its commitment to PwC has worked with Aylwin Girls’ performance and higher self esteem wider educational opportunities and School (now known as the Harris for those involved.” a more rounded curriculum, PwC Academy Bermondsey), a secondary OFSTED Inspectors’ Report for Aylwin supports a number of initiatives school in Bermondsey, for the past Girls’ School which seek to broaden young people’s 6 years. Support includes student experiences. A key partnership is with mentoring of Year 11 pupils (aged At Charles Dickens Primary School, PwC the Southwark Education Business 15/16), provided by PwC volunteers. has again been involved in a range of Alliance (EBA), which provides a formal Since the programme began around activities including individual and team channel for business involvement with 70 employees have participated as volunteering, headteacher mentoring and Southwark schools. PwC has been mentors. Evidence suggests that support for a DfES funded cross-river involved with the Southwark EBA student mentoring at Aylwin has partnership maths programme. The from the outset, and as well as being been extremely successful, with 80% school has a diverse population – 75% of represented on the Management Group of girls mentored achieving higher children have English as an additional has supported programmes, hosted than predicted grades at GCSE. language, 27% have special educational events and encouraged other businesses needs and 40% receive free school meals. to get on board. “The work of PwC has enabled students to build their self-confidence, to be proud PwC volunteers provide additional help PwC has been a key partner in the to be from Southwark and to take part and encouragement with literacy and Southwark EBA-led programme BRASS – in communities (specifically business numeracy. Reading volunteers commit Business Responsibility and Southwark communities) beyond the local area that to involvement for three school terms, Students. The programme, which is were formerly never open to them.” working with two children for 30 funded by the Pool of London Partnership, Mary Kenway, former Deputy minutes each once a week. They listen to is a pioneering citizenship initiative Headteacher, Aylwin Girls’ School children read, talk about the books they for primary and secondary schools in have read and help them with spelling. Southwark. Schools are partnered with
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark 19 Case Study local businesses, with the aim of helping does not, however, capture the full Southwark Playhouse. The link between pupils to learn more about business and impact on those participating, which the arts and education is strong and it its role in the community. The long term is better reflected through feedback is well recognised that arts activities can objective is to help improve young people’s from students and their teachers: often reach young people in a way that skills and employability and at the same formal teaching cannot. time raise awareness amongst businesses “BRASS has added to the national of their role in the local community. curriculum in English, especially since In its commitment to helping the young Programmes are delivered in eight pupils’ speaking and listening skills people of Southwark realise their workshop sessions through a range of are enhanced as a direct result of their potential, PwC has worked closely with activities and events both in and outside presentations and generally by their a number of arts organisations in the schools, culminating in workplace- interaction with the partner businesses.” borough. The firm’s relationship with based final presentations to peers, Secondary teacher Shakespeare’s Globe dates back over teachers, parents and business partners. 10 years to the time of the campaign to “I am more organised and I think I build the theatre. PwC shared the vision PwC helped formulate the structure of could run my own business. I learned for the Globe, realising what impact it the programme and was a key player a lot about team work and how to could have on the community and was in initiating the project, developing communicate better.” particularly helpful in brokering the initial strategy and facilitating the Student support in Southwark. preliminary meetings and consultations which encouraged other businesses The Globe is an internationally to participate. Harnessing creativity renowned theatre, but it is also very much part of the Southwark community. Since the programme began, around Southwark is fortunate to be home It was keen to recognise this through 800 young people have benefited, of to many arts organisations, from the the opening ceremony and in ongoing whom 42% have shown a measurable internationally known Tate Modern activities and from this the idea of improvement in attainment. This figure and Shakespeare’s Globe to smaller Our Theatre was born. community focused centres like the
“Congratulations on starting this initiative. The reason it’s important for me, is because theatre isn’t academic – you have to get up on your feet and participate and experience it and that chance to perform should be available to all of us. STEP can make that possible in Southwark. The beauty of theatre is that it allows us to discover our place in society. Why? Because all the world’s a stage.” Sir Ian McKellen, speaking at the launch of the 2004 STEP Festival
20 PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study “Anecdotal evidence suggests that ‘Our Theatre’ really affects confidence, eloquence and team-building skills. The proof of the pudding is that schools flock to become part of it and it’s always oversubscribed. Without PwC, it wouldn’t have happened.” Patrick Spottiswoode, Director, Globe Education
‘Our Theatre’ is a programme for PwC is a principal supporter of the (STEP), a borough-wide partnership Southwark schools. These schools Southwark Playhouse, which has between the education sector and take part in an eight-week programme developed into one of London’s leading the theatre community in Southwark. of activities focusing on the themes studio theatres. PwC has sponsored the STEP sees more than 100 creative explored in a Shakespearean play. educational element of the Playhouse activities delivered to 45 schools Each school collaborates with a Globe programme for five years. A key element each year involving 3,600 young Education practitioner to create an of the programme is Shakespeare for people and 280 teachers. Feedback ensemble scene for the Globe stage. Schools which grew out of a programme has been excellent, with 100% of Our Theatre culminates in March each of GCSE curriculum support. All schools involved believing it to be year when the participating schools Southwark secondary schools and a worthwhile initiative; 100% of come together to perform excerpts primary schools are offered free tickets teachers saying that they would on which they have been working on to the Playhouse’s annual Shakespeare recommend it to other schools; and the Globe stage. for Schools performances. This year 22 100% of those attending events schools came to performances; a further believing that it would stimulate PwC is the major partner in Our Theatre seven were interested in participating. work in the classroom. along with Southwark Council. Over the The Shakespeare project has also become ten years of the programme, more than a very important one for young theatre 4,500 children have taken part, and the practitioners. The attached “Young programme has been replicated at The Director’s Award” enables the winner to Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester, stage a fully funded production and this and in St Louis, USA. year over 100 applications were received.
PwC also partnered with the Globe in PwC is also one of the principal creating a Concert for Winter which is founding members of the Southwark held every December. Theatres Education Programme
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark 21 Case Study PwC recognises the importance of Over the years, PwC’s support has Employability extending support for young people included: beyond the bounds of the curriculum • mentoring residents; and skills and the school context. It has therefore provided support to a number of • skills workshops for residents development projects which seek to support young including CV writing and interview people in developing broader skills, technique; particularly around leadership and • work placements; employability. • matched funding; • funding a Saturday morning Study Employability Support Initiative for the benefit of local schools; and PwC provides support for young people who have left school through • donating business suits for a number of initiatives, including the interviews. Gateway programme with the charity Tomorrow’s People and business The corporate partnership programme mentoring for The Prince’s Trust. with Gateway has been a great success, Gateway was the first purpose-built helping many hundreds of people foyer to provide formerly homeless towards employment and raising young people with accommodation awareness of the opportunities that and training under the same roof. companies like PwC can offer. PwC has been involved since the mid- In 2004-5, 84% of people visiting 1990s and is one of several prominent the centre were helped into work. businesses supporting the project.
22 PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study PwC is a long term partner of The connections, music-making equipment schools are brought together to Prince’s Trust Business Programme, and a range of software for word understand how their city works, how and as well as providing financial processing and producing art, all decisions are taken that affect their support has encouraged employees of which are free for young people lives and learn how they can influence to become involved as members. to come on board and use. decisions now and in the future. PwC also supports The Prince’s Trust Team programme, which enables 16-25 PwC has provided a range of support Common Purpose launched the Your year olds to develop their confidence, to the project, from participating on Turn programme in South London motivation and skills over a 12 week the steering group to offering funding, in 1998. PwC has provided a variety course. The programme includes work facilities and staff. As well as the of support from the start including experience and career advice such as benefits delivered to Southwark’s young funding, providing volunteers from developing interview and CV skills, people, the project helps to build the firm to lead sessions on the PwC which PwC volunteers help deliver. relationships between the borough’s hosted programme days and hosting police and its business community. the presentation evenings. Since 1998, over 300 students from South London Citizenship have participated in the Your Turn Leadership programme, from which over 110 PwC became a supporter of the students were from Southwark. Metropolitan Police’s and Southwark Common Purpose is a charity which Council’s Karrot project in 2003. helps to develop leadership skills. The project is designed to engage PwC has been a supporter since the young people at risk of offending charity’s foundation in 1989 and in Southwark. It has a number of primarily focuses its involvement on elements including two internet buses the Your Turn programme, for Year 9 that have broadband internet students. Students from different
“PwC is acutely aware of what happens in the borough and has a genuine interest in what is trying to be achieved, and working out together what can be done. Their working relationship with us is dynamic and flexible.” Simon Smith, Southwark Police
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark 23 Case Study Aylwin Girls’ School (now known as STEP (Southwark Theatres PwC in Harris Academy Bermondsey) Education Partnership) Southwark – 80% of girls mentored have achieved 100 creative activities delivered to higher than predicted grades. 45 schools each year involving 3,600 summary The number of girls achieving grades young people and 280 teachers. 100% A*-C has risen from 24% to 49% in of schools believe it is a worthwhile of impacts the last 5 years compared to 18% for initiative; 100% of teachers would England as a whole and numbers recommend it to other schools; 100% entering further education have risen of attendees believe it would stimulate from 63% to 80% in the same period. work in the classroom.
BRASS (Business Responsibility and Employee involvement Southwark Students) 2,600 PwC staff have given 30,000 800 young people participated in this hours of volunteering time to help programme, of whom 42% showed young people in the borough. a measurable improvement in attainment. Overall Shakespeare’s Globe ‘Our Theatre’ In the borough as a whole over the past 5 years GCSE results have improved 44% 4,500 children and 154 teachers from (from 34% 5A*-C to 49% (England 48 Southwark schools have taken part. comparative 18% from 50-59%)).
“I learned a lot. I will take away knowledge and understanding of a broader view of organisations and business. I can now think more clearly and have the confidence to speak out loud in a crowd – more than I did before.” Student, on BRASS programme
24 PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study The projects and partnerships outlined Conclusion represent only a percentage of those with which PwC has been involved over the years. While maintaining a core focus on education attainment and employability skills of young people, PwC has developed a broad programme of activity and played a key role in the regeneration of Southwark.
The next section will explore the lessons that can be learnt from PwC’s approach in Southwark and consider what these learnings mean for wider corporate community investment.
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark 25 Case Study The Debate
26 PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study Essential to PwC’s success in Southwark the issues that are faced by Southwark, Understanding is the time that has been spent developing and rather than simply bestowing help, an understanding of the borough and has worked carefully to enable local the context its community. From the outset, PwC agencies and organisations to deliver understood that the success of its what is needed. The nature and impact involvement with Southwark depended of this type and depth of involvement on some key activities: can be difficult to capture, but feedback from PwC’s community partners • talking to people in the community affirms the view that PwC and the to understand what the key issues Community Affairs team are very much are and where input is needed; part of the fabric of Southwark. • networking to determine how decisions are made and where “The difference between PwC and influence lies; other businesses involved in education is that they get alongside the issues; • identifying the areas where PwC can they’re willing to get their hands have the most constructive input; and dirty. It’s not just money and some • engaging with a small number of volunteers, they’re very much involved experienced organisations who have in negotiating how it takes place, its the knowledge and expertise to development and evaluation, so it’s deliver what is needed. a deep involvement and although it sounds straightforward, it’s distinctive Much of PwC’s success in Southwark to the way many corporates operate. has been based on the depth of They don’t float above it all, they get involvement, not just in individual stuck in and live the project. It’s not projects but in the wider ‘universe’ just facilitation, it’s participation.” of community development, education Terry Powley, Director, North Southwark and regeneration in the borough. Education Action Zone, 1998-2001 PwC has worked hard to understand
“I see PricewaterhouseCoopers as a model for business integration with the wider community. It is the only organisation I know to demonstrate such a deep and long-term commitment. It sets the standards we hope others will follow”. Fred Manson, former Director, Regeneration and Environment, London Borough of Southwark
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark 27 Case Study “PwC is a senior member of the ‘Southwark Club’. It is a key corporate partner in Southwark, and from partnerships, you get good strategic thinking and decision making. PwC has been a much needed ‘critical friend’. Carol Kay, CEO, Southwark Education Business Alliance
Summary of support given in Southwark who take the confidence shown in our organisation as a sign that we can be The total contribution for the period 1998-2006 in cash, time and in-kind was trusted to stage (and deliver) education £1.75 million and community projects: it’s a priceless endorsement.” 1998-1999 2005-2006 Tom Wilson, Education Director, Number of volunteers 16 615 Southwark Playhouse Number of hours volunteered 740 5,500 “PwC is taken seriously by decision- makers in Southwark; there’s a general While PwC has invested a significant the team means that PwC has become sense that PwC is a key partner – amount in Southwark, it is not a a facilitator and a catalyst for change. because they’ve proved themselves to multi-million pound programme. PwC has clear objectives for its be not just a distant source of money, The programme shows that while programme and cannot support every but people who want to be actively financial investment is important, cause. Its networks and knowledge involved with all the issues.” this is not the only factor that leads are such, however, that it can support Terry Powley, Director, North Southwark to successful partnerships. organisations in finding appropriate Education Action Zone, 1998-2001 partners for their individual projects. From the outset, PwC’s Community Affairs team has worked hard to “PricewaterhouseCoopers invites us to understand and integrate with the networking events which enable us to Southwark community and with its meet others in the arts world and other leading organisations. The deep potential funders. PwC’s support sends understanding of Southwark held by a vastly reassuring signal to others,
28 PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study It is now widely accepted that a truly Leadership Team on two Community Integration responsible company is one that takes an Affairs volunteering days. Richard, integrated approach to the management on behalf of the Board, gave a of its environmental, social and economic presentation to all PwC partners about issues. It is on this principle that the the Community Affairs programme at BitC Corporate Responsibility Index is the Annual Partners Meeting in 2005. founded, after research it commissioned Other senior partners are also actively amongst business leaders showed that involved. One of the Board members 78% of respondents believed that has acted as a student mentor and the competitiveness would only be increased firm’s Head of Professional Services if responsible business practice was was Chair of Governors at Aylwin Girls’ integrated throughout the organisation. School, from 1998 to July 2006, having previously mentored its Headteacher. Integration obviously cannot happen overnight, but PwC has worked hard The fact that people at all levels in PwC to ensure that its programme in are engaged in the programme adds to its Southwark makes sense in the context strength and credibility. When members of the firm’s culture and has focused of the Southwark community see senior on a number of factors to achieve this. partners attending events, acting as school governors or providing mentoring, First, the programme is led from the top. it sends a message that the firm is taking The Board has given its full support its responsibilities extremely seriously. for the programme in Southwark and senior members have been actively “PwC can make a difference to people’s involved. In January 2005, Richard lives, because it’s built within their own Collier-Keywood was appointed Board company strategy.” member responsible for Community Amerjit Chohan, National Fundraising Affairs and since then he has taken his Manager, Tomorrow’s People
“CR at PwC is rooted in the community and not just in the board room. The Community Affairs team not only offers financial support for local initiatives but, as importantly, offers advice about community programmes and partnerships. It enables and mentors and does so with a profound knowledge of the community’s needs and potential.” Patrick Spottiswoode, Director, Globe Education
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark 29 Case Study Second, the programme is integrated The involvement of staff in volunteering representatives of the Community Affairs at all levels. As well as a nominated in their own time is recognised by the team present at recruitment events. Board member with responsibility firm through the Matched Giving A Community Affairs presentation is for Community Affairs, PwC has a Programme and Volunteering Awards also made at staff induction events. Community Affairs Advisory Group Scheme. The Matched Giving Programme The programme is featured in the PwC which includes representatives from matches up to £250 a year to the charities Annual Report, the CR Report, in every all the firm’s business areas. The for which staff actively fundraise outside edition of PwC’s in-house publication, Group advises the Community Affairs working hours. The Volunteering Awards Perspectives and on the website and team on developments in its business Scheme recognises time commitment. For intranet. Staff views are captured through units as well as promoting Community those who are unable to volunteer, giving a quarterly ‘You Matter’ survey. The Affairs back into the business. is made easy through a Give As You Earn most recent results showed that 95% PwC has a network of Community scheme, with PwC paying all associated believe it is important for the firm to be Champions in the regions and is administration costs on behalf of involved with its local communities. rolling out a network of Community participating staff. Affairs Champions throughout the To emphasise the importance of its London offices. Their role is to raise This involvement at all levels has not relationship with the community, PwC the awareness of community projects escaped PwC’s community partners who ensures that its community partners within their business team and value the quality of support received. are invited into the office. Regular visits encourage them to get involved. Roger Hiskey of Aylwin Girls’ School by local young people and community (HAB) says that “people from the top to partners bring the programme into the Feedback from volunteers shows that the bottom of PwC offer their mentoring workplace and in amongst employees, they feel enabled by senior management services; they have been fantastic in many of whom host the visits. to take time off work for volunteering supporting us”. activities. In a discussion group with employee volunteers, it was commented PwC takes care to communicate to that they “felt supported in signing up” employees the opportunities that exist for and that “there is quite a lot of support community involvement. This effort when you do get involved”. begins before people join the firm, with
“The people who have taken part on behalf of PwC have never made the students feel like its ‘them and us’. They have always communicated in a way that was totally inclusive – making themselves available and approaching kids of all ability levels.” Amerjit Chohan, National Fundraising Manager, Tomorrow’s People
30 PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study “The PwC volunteers are bright, reliable and consistent. They are fabulous role models for children, they are keen and committed.” Carol Kay, CEO, Southwark Education Business Alliance
There is no doubt that PwC has made a Through discussions with the PwC Recognition significant difference to the community Community Affairs team and with of Southwark, particularly to its young community partners involved in the people. The benefits of PwC’s work has programme, it is possible to identify been acknowledged by all facets of the two key factors which have contributed community, from MPs to the children to the programme’s success and which involved in the programme. mark it out as an example of good practice in corporate community PwC has also received external investment. These factors are: recognition for its corporate responsibility • a deep understanding of the performance through Business in the context in which the programme Community’s Corporate Responsibility is operating; and Index, in which its community investment activity was judged as “outstanding”. • the degree to which the programme’s In addition, PwC’s activities in Southwark principles and objectives are integrated have been recognised by a number of and embedded into the culture of the awards schemes, including Business in the firm, and the engagement of people Community’s Special Jubilee Award, the at all levels. Mentoring and Befriending Foundation and The City of London Lord Mayor’s Dragon Award.
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark 31 Case Study From a wider community investment the PwC culture and reflected by the Challenges for perspective, the PwC programme numerous strands of involvement at shows clear examples of good practice. all levels of the firm. the future The programme is based on strong, sustained relationships built on mutual Feedback from community partners and trust and respect. Activities are targeted Southwark opinion formers on PwC’s at areas of real need, identifiable through involvement in the borough has been a deep understanding of the Southwark overwhelmingly positive. All community context. Activities also make sense in a partners expressed a strong wish for business context, providing a range of PwC’s programme and its relationship opportunities for PwC employees to with the Southwark community to develop personally and professionally. continue. PwC is committed to having The programme is well embedded into a continuous presence in Southwark.
32 PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study An ongoing challenge for all those but be of enormous benefit to community Evaluation involved in community investment partners who seek to use the success of activity is to understand the impact of their relationship with PwC to leverage their work. Evaluation based on ‘soft’ support from other bodies. factors, such as impact on a person’s confidence or sense of community, is A growing focus on evaluation and a complex process that requires careful impact assessment is a reflection of planning and significant investment the ‘normalisation’ of corporate of resources. This review is based on responsibility into every day business qualitative feedback from community practice. As part of business as usual, partners, some of whom also have corporate responsibility activity needs quantitative data on the inputs and to be justified, measured and reported outputs of their individual projects. on along with all other activities. This An area for future consideration, also indicates the view that a truly however, would be the development responsible company is one for whom by PwC of a more comprehensive social, environmental and ethical evaluation framework. This would not issues are completely integrated into only provide useful data for PwC to use business culture. in its corporate responsibility reporting,
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark 33 Case Study PwC has contributed significantly to the with the firm’s needs, and as one Employment personal development of Southwark’s community partner recognised: young people, focusing on improving “social demographics do not always opportunities for learning, training and allow recruiting from the local area”. skills development. This contribution is If opportunities could be explored the result of strong partnership working, and opened up, however, this would and an expression of all sectors joining emphasise how a responsibility towards together to transform the community. communities has become completely This work is immensely valuable, but embedded into the firm’s culture and the next step for PwC might be to build on the foundations of PwC’s consider whether it can go further, by efforts to improve the prospects of providing jobs for Southwark’s young Southwark’s young people. people. Recruitment must of course fit
34 PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study Conclusion
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark 35 Case Study Based on the feedback gathered during programme, this core focus has What makes a the review and the debate, a number of been retained and has enabled the key points can be drawn out as being Community Affairs team to build up good community significant in the success of PwC’s a strong rapport with the Southwark community programme. Although there education community, and develop programme? is more than one way of managing a a deep understanding of Southwark’s good Community Affairs programme, particular issues. the following have been important for PwC and could provide consideration 2. Understanding the community for wider corporate community investment programmes: It’s essential that a community programme addresses a real need and 1. Being clear about the objectives complements activities already taking place in the local area. PwC’s familiarity Clarity around the objectives and focus with the organisations working in of a community programme enables Southwark and with the particular issues support to be targeted effectively and within the borough ensures that its lends credibility to a partner. It also programme is as effective as possible. provides a stronger core message It also ensures that impact stretches which helps with the communication beyond the activities of programme – of the programme. PwC has focused as an integrated member of the strongly on education attainment and community, they also help third parties employability for young people. Despite come together successfully. the depth and breadth of the
“The role that PwC has adopted has been, and continues to be, exceptional. The PwC approach to community engagement has undoubtedly made a marked and sustainable improvement to outcomes for young people and the local community.” Bob Coomber, former Chief Executive, Southwark Council
36 PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study 3. Using your strengths to help 5. Being consistent others use theirs Community and voluntary organisations The best people to deliver projects often suffer from trends in charitable are the experts – those who are trained giving. It can be difficult, especially for in education and who are experienced smaller organisations, to compete for in working with young people. PwC support and funding against national acts as an enabler and facilitator, using charities with eye-catching campaigns. its strengths to support specialist PwC has consistently supported its organisations. partners over a number of years and has remained committed to its core focus areas even when the attention of others 4. Being sustainable has moved to other issues. Research amongst community and voluntary organisations shows that 6. Being open to change sustainability of funding and support is one of their key challenges and With success and long-term relationships something which can get in the way can come complacency. PwC knows of the delivery of their services. PwC Southwark and its community extremely has been committed to Southwark well, but the Community Affairs team for many years and still maintains recognises that there are always new relationships with original partner issues that may emerge and new ways of organisations. looking at things and that it is important to be open and receptive to new ideas and approaches.
PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark 37 Case Study Appendix A: Interviewee(s) Organisation Tracey Berridge, former Programme Common Purpose Acknowledgements Director, Your Turn Amerjit Chohan, National Tomorrow’s People Fundraising Manager Bob Coomber, former Chief Executive Southwark Council Mary Dunphy, The Prince’s Trust Programme Manager, Team Roger Hiskey, Student Aylwin Girls’ School (now known as Mentor Co-ordinator the Harris Academy Bermondsey) Linda Houston, Director Pool of London Partnership Carol Kay, CEO Southwark Education Business Alliance Mary Kenway, Aylwin Girls’ School (now known as former Deputy Headteacher the Harris Academy Bermondsey) Liz Owens, former Headteacher Charles Dickens Primary School Terry Powley, Director North Southwark Education Action Zone, 1998-2001 Giles Semper, Business Liaison Better Bankside Manager Simon Smith, Inspector – Partnership Metropolitan Police, Southwark Patrick Spottiswoode, Director, Shakespeare’s Globe Globe Education Peter Williams, Chief Executive Better Bankside Tom Wilson, Education Director Southwark Playhouse Clare Gardner, Director Community Affairs, David R Adair, Senior Manager PricewaterhouseCoopers Lindsey Nash, Manager Anne Wolfe, Alumna
Special thanks to all the PwC employees and community partners who have contributed to the success of our programmes in Southwark over the years. Some of the photographs were kindly supplied by our community partners; thanks to Better Bankside, Globe Education, Sheila Burnett, Patrick Baldwin and John Tramper.
38 PricewaterhouseCoopers in Southwark Case Study Printed in Southwark on Revive 100 uncoated 100% post consumer reclaimed material FSC 100% recycled paper, supporting responsible use of forest resources Printed using mineral oil free inks