Thakeham Group

Putting people before profits, Thakeham voluntarily handed back to the government about £200,000 in furlough payments for 40% of its staff during the coronavirus pandemic. It was a rare move for a company outside the realm of big business but the board voted unanimously to return the money when the outlook for the construction industry became clearer, saying: “We simply believe that other people needed this money more than us. Our values must always match those of the national community creator we aspire to become.”

The West Sussex company, committed to creating amazing places to live and work, has become a developer with a difference since its launch in 2003, delivering social, affordable and retirement housing for some of the UK's biggest housing associations and local authorities. Last year Thakeham and its contractors contributed about £450,000 to build an ecological hub and study centre at Seeley Copse on the Goodwood Estate in Chichester, where 3,000 schoolchildren and their families will learn about biodiversity each year.

Thakeham describes the 200 people it employs as its best asset and communication became vital for staff working from home. Managers made every contact accessible and relevant, using a range of channels to share information and invite feedback. As well as hosting meetings and Q&A sessions, Thakeham opened a virtual pub and held quizzes, a murder mystery and a children's scavenger hunt. Everyone across the business was given an extra week off at Easter 2021 in recognition of their dedication throughout a difficult year.