Community Engagement and Inclusion in Slough: A Unifying Force for Inward Investment.

Slough’s commitment to community engagement and inclusion serves as a cornerstone for fostering an environment where residents and businesses alike can thrive. By leveraging sports, education, and corporate partnerships, Slough is creating a model of sustainable development that enhances social wellbeing, builds skills, and attracts businesses and inward investment.

Sport is a Unifying Force for Wellbeing and Social Impact

Sport is central to Slough’s efforts to foster an inclusive community. As a universal language, sport breaks down barriers, encouraging teamwork and community spirit while improving health and wellbeing. The recently announced partnership between Slough Town Football Club and Slough & Langley College highlights the role sport plays to catalyse positive social outcomes.

Announced as a shared commitment to the residents of Slough, this collaboration brings together education and sport to provide skills and opportunities to adults in the community. Gillian May, Group Principal and CEO of The Windsor Forest Colleges Group, explained:

“We’re excited to partner with Slough Town FC, a club that shares our commitment to community through education. This partnership reflects our college’s drive to opening doors for adults seeking to enhance their skills and job prospects within Slough.”

The partnership not only raises awareness of vocational training and skills development but also includes community outreach initiatives such as hosting classes and events. Steve Doyle, Commercial Director at Slough Town, added: “By hosting classes and also looking at how we can provide opportunities at the Club for those at the college, we believe this partnership could deliver some fantastic outcomes for everyone involved.”

These efforts align with Slough’s broader vision of creating a skilled workforce that appeals to businesses and supports young professionals, while enhancing health and social impact, including through the unifying power of sports.

 

Corporate Engagement and Community Partnerships

Slough’s corporate landscape also plays a vital role in driving community engagement and inclusion. The Slough Trading Estate, owned by SEGRO Plc, is home to numerous global businesses, including Mars, Ferrari and DHL, and serves as a hub of innovation and opportunity. SEGRO’s initiatives, particularly through its Responsible SEGRO Framework, exemplify how businesses can contribute to local communities.

The framework sets ambitious goals to engage 50,000 students through STEM and work programmes, provide skills training to 15,000 people, and implement 300 community improvement projects across SEGRO’s operational areas, including Slough. This includes practical initiatives such as mentoring, apprenticeships, and environmental projects that equip young people with the tools to succeed while improving the community’s overall wellbeing.

Universally, 2023 saw 89 students mentored by SEGRO employees and customers, 347 unemployed people into employment, and 44 projects delivered to enhance the wellbeing and environment of local communities.

Additionally, SEGRO’s Centenary Fund commits £10 million over a decade to community projects, including in Slough. By partnering with organisations such as the Berkshire Community Foundation, SEGRO has supported initiatives addressing unemployment and social deprivation, providing residents with pathways to employment and better work and life prospects.

Pat Hayes, Executive Director of Regeneration, Housing & Environment at Slough Borough Council, emphasised the importance of these collaborations: “Slough’s strength lies in its diversity and collaboration. Initiatives that bring together businesses, educational institutions, and the community to foster engagement and inclusion are key to powering regeneration and ensuring our residents benefit from the town’s economic success. Sport is a primary catalyst for driving this change.”

Inclusion and Investment: The Road Ahead

By combining the power of sports, education, and corporate responsibility, Slough is building a model for sustainable and inclusive development. These initiatives not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also create an environment that appeals to businesses and investors. For companies seeking to make a meaningful impact while benefiting from a skilled and vibrant workforce, Slough offers unparalleled opportunities.

Slough’s approach is a reminder that inward investment is not only about financial return – it’s also about creating a positive legacy for the community. Investors and businesses have the chance to be part of a town that prioritises people, partnerships, and progress, ensuring shared success for all.