When reflecting on 2020, Covid-19 has dominated headlines, changing lives in unimaginable ways. Whilst some of us may have at last found peace and routine amidst the chaos, for many, 2020 was an insufferable year, defined by loss, grief, and hardship.
Like many, I had a year that stretched me. At work, I supported a company through change, attempting things never done before in ways that had never worked before. At home, I discovered a newfound respect for teachers while I tried, and often failed, to explain English grammar fundamentals to my children (sometimes forgetting that I wasn’t on mute). I also attended a funeral for a loved one that wasn’t as it should have been, moved house, celebrated virtual birthdays, weddings and did not hug family and friends for far too long - but I know I am one of the lucky ones. I have a job, a secure income, a roof over my head and most importantly, a loving family both physically and virtually with me.
As restrictions slowly begin to ease, we are still yet to witness the full impact of Covid-19 - on mental and physical health, employment and on struggling businesses. And I am also very aware that we don’t yet know what the future holds for us or for families and friends at home and in other countries.
What I do know is, 2020 taught us how much we need to pull together during hard times. And it’s important we don’t lose that renewed sense of community. According to a More in Common report, the majority of Briton’s believe that our communities have become more caring, connected and kinder during the Covid-19 pandemic. The findings also showed that we all share a deep concern to close the gap between those who are thriving and those who are struggling to survive. I have certainly seen this amongst our people.
Whilst we were initially concerned about how we could deliver on our promises, I am fortunate enough to work for a business and with people who adapted, going above and beyond during the pandemic; donating IT equipment to businesses and people in need, designing virtual programmes to reach young people and continuing to connect with and support people who too, want to make a difference. People like Armin, who showed a real enthusiasm for the business during a mentoring programme and went on to secure a placement on our trainee scheme. And people like Yassin, our engineering apprentice who is keen to take his skills to Somalia and work on construction projects to improve people's lives.
I hope you enjoy the stories in our 2020 review as much as I do. It makes me feel optimistic about what we can do moving forward. In 2020, we launched our 2030 sustainability strategy, Now or Never, Our decisive decade. Made up of three clear themes; Brilliant Buildings, Building Lives and Better Planet, the ten-year strategy is underpinned by the aim to leave a world fit for future generations.
Building Lives is where the Willmott Dixon Foundation focuses. It is all about supporting the people and businesses in our communities to thrive. I look forward to seeing what we manage to do, together, this year.