BUILDING and development firm Seddon has received a “big tick” for its commitment to growing the next generation of building talent.

The company’s “Grow Your Own” campaign, which focuses on attracting talent and developing future leaders for the construction sector, helped the company achieve a big tick in the Inspiring Young Talent category at the Responsible Business Awards 2014.

The awards, which are run by the charity Business in the Community, champion responsible businesses across the UK that are helping tackle key social and environmental issues.

Judges from Business in the Community praised Seddon for its dedication to training and developing its staff as well as its work with talented young people looking to work in the construction industry.

In 2013, the company reinvested more than a quarter of its operating costs in its recruitment and development programme, ran 1,890 college and university placement days and recruited 46 new apprentices.

Seddon has a record of identifying and developing new talent, and is one of few large, national builders to retain a dedicated apprenticeship and training programme throughout the recent recession.

The company has recruited apprentices continuously for more than 75 years.

Managing director Jonathan Seddon said: “We are incredibly proud of our work in training the next generation of construction workers, quantity surveyors and site managers.

“This big tick is recognition of our work in the field as we continue to fill the skills gap that is gripping the construction industry.”

Stephen Howard, chief executive of business in the community, said: “All year round, responsible businesses across the UK are contributing towards more resilient communities, stimulating local economies, creating diverse, skilled and healthy workforces and addressing skills shortages — yet these activities rarely get attention.

“The Responsible Business Awards shine a much-needed spotlight on the powerful impact of business.

“Each of the companies recognised are playing their part to build a new contract between business and society and a more sustainable future for us all.

“I congratulate Seddon for its Big Tick, which is a powerful symbol of business doing more to bring about change.”