• August 2025
  • Social Value in Sandwell: Connect Construction transforms overgrown area at Barnardo’s Family Hub in Rowley Regis

Local construction firm Connect Construction has lent its support to the Barnardo’s Family Support Centre in Rowley Regis, bringing new life to a neglected outdoor area through a community initiative with Sandwell Council.

The project began when Ben Eden, Commercial Manager at Connect Construction, approached Sandwell Council’s Social Value team, seeking opportunities to make a meaningful impact in the community. Sandwell Council’s Social Value Team swiftly facilitated a connection between the company and Barnardo’s Family Hub, which had an overgrown, unused space at the front and side of the building.

Within days, a team from Connect Construction arrived on-site and cleared the area of brambles, weeds and tall grass, completely transforming the space and improving the building’s exterior appearance.

“This is great,” said Sarah Rutter, Children’s Services Manager at Barnardo’s. “Many thanks to Ben and the team. The work was completed in no time, and it’s fantastic to now have a much more attractive view for families using our centre. It is greatly appreciated.”

Karen Richards, Sandwell Council Social Value Officer praised the swift response: “A big thank you to Ben and the Connect Construction team for stepping in so quickly and making such a positive difference. It’s a wonderful example of how businesses can support their local communities in many meaningful ways.”

Ben Eden added: “We’re only a small business but if we can help support the community, it brings a real sense of achievement. It’s rewarding to make a difference in small ways, wherever we can.”

Connect Construction, a growing SME working closely with Sandwell Council on local projects, says it plans to continue looking for ways to support neighbourhood initiatives across the region.