Flexible workplace provider, Fora, aims to offer much more than just a space to work for its “residents” and staff. Close to home but not at home, a pandemic notwithstanding, Fora provides hospitality focussed co-working spaces, private offices and event space for freelancers and businesses.

Founded in 2016 by Katrina Larkin and Enrico Sanna using their extensive experience in the hospitality and leisure industries, Fora started with one location in the Capital's Old Street and now owns, operates and manages 18 buildings across London and Reading.

Pride, Unity, Courage and Integrity are the principles driving the culture at Fora and are reflected in everything from the work staff, known as Forateers, do to volunteering in local communities, its sustainability commitments and encouraging new ideas from the team.

Fora understands that happy, healthy people deliver their best work and so staff have access to medical services, free fitness classes and there is an annual two day company retreat as well as regular social events and opportunities for personal growth.

The announcement of the lockdown required the business to close all its buildings and place concierge staff, apart from general managers, on furlough. Unity as a company and within teams is a priority for Fora which has a flat hierarchy and a monthly budgets for team outings. Acting on feedback from staff Fora has removed the 9pm late finishing shift and Saturday site visits for concierge teams and has pledged to pay Forateers at least the London Living Wage