At Agena Group, we believe that our impact as a business is measured not only by what we deliver for clients, but by the difference we make in society. As part of our ongoing commitment to social responsibility, our colleagues have recently taken part in two standout volunteering initiatives—each reflecting our values of compassion, inclusion, and active community support.
Heart of Sidley Festival – Bexhill-on-Sea
The Heart of Sidley Festival is a much-loved annual event run by the Heart of Sidley charity in partnership with Southern Housing. Taking place in one of the UK’s most deprived areas, the festival is designed to unite the local community and provide families with a safe, welcoming, and vibrant day of entertainment—especially for those who may not otherwise have access to such opportunities.
Six of our colleagues—Ross Porter-McLaughlin, Tim, Ilona, Lee, Amelia and Laila—volunteered on the day to manage road closures around Sidley Recreation Ground. Their support ensured residents maintained access to their homes while enabling the festival to run smoothly, preventing disruptions that could jeopardise future events.
The event organisers were quick to recognise the team’s contribution:
“The day went really well and the help we received from the team was invaluable—please give them a big thanks from us. Hopefully we get to do it all again next year.”
This event not only brought joy to the Sidley community, but also highlighted the importance of corporate involvement in enabling grassroots initiatives to thrive.
Tom Raine Court – Darlington
Earlier this month, another group of Agena colleagues spent two days volunteering at Tom Raine Court, a supported housing scheme run by Salvation Army Homes in Darlington. The facility provides safe accommodation and wraparound support to individuals who have experienced, or are at risk of, homelessness.
Our team gave their time and energy to enhance the outdoor space—clearing, tidying, and restoring the garden area to create a more welcoming, usable environment for residents. These improvements offer more than just aesthetics—they contribute to the dignity, wellbeing, and everyday experience of the people who live there.
It was a hands-on initiative with heart, offering a meaningful way for colleagues to connect with local people and support their quality of life in a tangible, lasting way.
Across both events, our volunteers showed professionalism, care, and a genuine desire to make a difference. These initiatives reflect the kind of business we are building at Agena: one where giving back is part of our DNA and where every colleague can play a role in delivering social value.
We’re proud of everyone who took part and look forward to continuing our mission to support stronger, more inclusive communities across the UK.
