PD Ports is celebrating gaining recognition for its community engagement by Business in the Community. During the Responsible Business Awards 2015, the port operator gained shortlisted status in the ‘Freshfields Work Inclusion Award’ and received re-accreditation of a ‘Big Tick’, first awarded last year.

The Responsible Business Awards are the most prestigious and respected awards championing responsible business in the UK and abroad. They celebrate inspirational companies that are taking action to address social and environmental issues and transform their communities. 

PD Ports received shortlisted status for its Dock Operative Apprenticeship scheme, which was established in 2011. The apprenticeship was created to offer the long term unemployed a route into permanent work. The scheme provided 21 local people the opportunity to train as a dock operative with the view to gaining full time employment on successful completion of the programme. 13 apprentices are now in full time roles at PD Ports whilst the remaining eight continue in their apprenticeship due for completion next year.

In 2014, PD Ports was awarded a Big Tick in the category of ‘Inspiring Young Talent’ in support of the High Tide Foundation’s Summer Scheme. The High Tide Foundation was launched in 2012 to raise aspirations and increase employment opportunities for young people on Teesside. 

High Tide’s Summer Scheme is one of the Foundation’s flagship programmes, offering two weeks of practical training in different companies to understand the interrelationships in the supply chain. The number of young people taking part has tripled since the programme was introduced with over 100 placements available this year for 50 school leavers from across the region. 

Since High Tide launched, more than 40 PD Ports employees have volunteered to assist in the delivery of the charity’s programmes.

David Robinson, Chief Executive Officer, PD Ports, commented: 'To be recognised by the Business in the Community for the work we’ve achieved in support of the High Tide Foundation is fantastic. As one of the region’s largest employers it is our responsibility along with the rest of the business community to raise aspirations of Teesside’s young people and make employment opportunities more accessible. It is hoped that through this recognition we can inspire other businesses to get more involved with community-led projects.'

Stephen Howard, Chief Executive, Business in the Community said: 'The Responsible Business Awards celebrate the very best of business, so it is fitting to be announcing the shortlist today as part of Responsible Business Week, which raises awareness of business as a powerful force for good. We congratulate PD Ports for playing its part in creating a fairer society and more sustainable future. The shortlisted businesses publically demonstrate that business has a greater purpose then simply generating profit and are a great example to others.'

All shortlisted companies will be celebrated through a series of Responsible Business Gala events taking place across the UK in June.