Energy Assesor of Groundwork West Midlands, Jack Holmes (pictured), said: “Our audits are free to access and can play a vital part in helping an organisation not only to implement more sustainable processes, but ultimately to continue running their buildings in the long run.

“We are able to advise on things such as lighting, heating, insulation and ways to reduce energy costs – which can be quite signifiant to the operations of a business or charity.

“In the last year we have worked with 30 different organisations across the Stoke area and have seen the benefit first hand. We are now looking to support at least another 30 before funding comes to an end in March 2025, and we welcome anyone to get in touch to see how we can help.”

One of the local charities Groundwork West Midlands have recently supported is CAFAG – Chell Area Family Action Group – who are located in Fegg Hayes – and provide various activities to improve the physical, mental and social wellbeing of communities.

CAFAG charity manager Emily Taylor, said the support they have received has been invaluable.

“CAFAG would like to extend a huge thank you to Groundwork for their invaluable support in providing a comprehensive energy assessment and offering advice on how we can save money as a charity,” said Emily.

“This support is crucial for the continuation of the vital services we provide to the community. Without this funding, the charity faced a serious risk of closure due to condemned boilers. Thanks to Groundworks, we are still here today.

“CAFAG has been serving the community for over 25 years, and with Groundworks’ help, we hope to continue for another 25 years or more, with new insights and knowledge to renew our building, save on long-term energy costs, and support the sustainability of our charity.”

Other local charity VAST – who work on developing, advancing and promoting the voluntary community sector in Staffordshire – have also received support via the Sustainable Ventures initiative for motion-activated lighting for the Dudson Centre’s stairways and toilets.

Lisa Healings, VAST Chief Executive, said: “Jack’s help has made a huge difference to us and was instrumental in the success of our application for a Sustainable Ventures grant. His initial energy audit showed us where and how we could be more energy conscious around the Dudson Centre where we’re based.

“We’re very grateful to Jack and the team, they have taken time to work closely with our teams, providing valuable insight and helpful suggestions to ensure that we have an up-to-date energy efficiency report that covers the whole of the centre. This help has also been integral to our VCSE Energy Efficiency Grant application.”

Lisa added: “It’s also been great to see Jack at a number of our events, networks and forums to promote the sustainable ventures project and to build relationships with some of our member organisations who they’re looking to support.

“Throughout the whole process Jack, and the Groundwork team, has been responsive, considerate, and incredibly helpful, and we wouldn’t have been able to submit either application without their help.”

Groundwork West Midlands are part of a federation of trusts and employ expert staff and also welcome volunteers to assist with various projects.

Green Doctor is another local project the charity delivers which provides advice on residential homes.

For more details about Groundwork West Midlands Sustainable Ventures initiative contact SBSWestMidlands@Groundwork.org.uk