Community Programmes & Initiatives
We believe strongly in maintaining the bond with all generations, young and old, who regularly use our centres. Local management are encouraged to identify opportunities to work with their local community as appropriate in their area. Whilst the aims and objectives of organisations with whom we work are diverse and tackle a variety of problems across a broad spread of age groups, there is a central theme of providing support to the younger generation, especially those vulnerable members of society.
Shopping centres are important hubs for their local communities, providing the facilities for social interaction, entertainment, trade and commerce. By forming central partnerships with national organisations, pre-eminent in their respective fields, in joint projects focused on youth, education and the prevention of anti-social behaviour. In concentrating on these three areas, we are addressing fundamental issues in modern society which are important to the long-term success of our business. The Crime Concern case study illustrates our achievements in this important component of our community programme.
Our contribution is provided by way of a combination of funding, provision of mall space, staff time and other support as appropriate. We assess the added value offered by each partnership before extending the initiative to other locations. To provide a safe and secure environment for our shoppers and retailers, we maintain strong relationships with the police local to our shopping centres and in five of our centres we provide on-site facilities for the operational benefit of both parties to the relationship.