Westminster Labour’s commitment to building a Fairer Westminster is delivering real results for local residents and businesses.
The Council’s latest Social Value Impact Report shows how Westminster is using its spending power to generate £5.3 million in community investment, support over 150 local organisations, and help nearly 600 residents into jobs and apprenticeships.
Social value – the principle that public spending should deliver wider benefits for the community – is now built into every major Westminster contract. This approach is transforming the way the Council works with developers, suppliers, and businesses to create a stronger, fairer local economy.
Key achievements over the past year include:
- £5.3 million spent with Westminster-based businesses, up £1.7 million on last year
- 585 residents supported into employment, including apprenticeships
- £845,000 raised for community projects
- 36,000 hours volunteered by local partners
- Support provided to more than 150 schools and community groups
- 3,340 volunteer hours on environmental and greening projects
- £15,000 contributed to homelessness support through Westminster Community Homes
Behind these numbers are inspiring stories of collaboration and inclusion.
At Darwin House and Luxborough Street, developer Wates Residential partnered with the Westminster Employment Service to provide opportunities for residents with SEND needs, creating jobs, skills, and lasting change.
Elsewhere, Axis Europe and local contractors restored a school library bus at St Mary Magdalene and St Stephen’s School, contributing hundreds of volunteer hours and new books to give children access to reading once again.
Councillor Geoff Barraclough, Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development, marked the report’s launch with a Fairer Economy event, bringing together business leaders, social enterprises, and community organisations to explore how Westminster can continue turning good intentions into lasting impact.
He said: “Our social value programme shows how the Council can deliver meaningful benefits to residents while strengthening the value businesses bring to the city. Labour is helping more people into work, supporting local enterprise, and shaping a fairer, more inclusive Westminster.”