Aspire Community Works Community Interest Company

Aspire Community Works, based in East London, is a community interest company that focuses on providing employment and training opportunities for individuals who have been marginalized or disadvantaged in the labor market. Established in 2004 as a charity supporting homeless people, Aspire transitioned into a community business in 2015. This transformation allowed the organization to become more self-sustaining and competitive in delivering services across London and the South East. Today, Aspire specializes in estate management services, including horticulture, grounds maintenance, and cleaning services, working with housing associations, local authorities, and commercial organizations.

Aspire is committed to social mobility and creating sustainable, high-quality employment opportunities for people who face barriers to work, such as homelessness or social disadvantage. One of the organization’s key commitments is to pay its employees the Real Living Wage, and it places a strong emphasis on good employment practices, ensuring that its workforce is treated with respect and dignity. Aspire has also developed a pioneering training system that equips its employees with the necessary skills to succeed in their roles while contributing to the community’s environmental and social well-being.

The company has received several accolades for its impact, including the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise in 2021. This recognition highlights Aspire’s commitment to promoting social mobility and providing high-quality services in a fair and inclusive manner. Aspire’s work not only benefits its employees but also enhances the quality of public services through its innovative approach to procurement and community collaboration. Most recently it has been awarded the Mayor of London’s Gold Standard for Good Works.

In addition to its core services, Aspire is actively involved in campaigns like “Better For Us,” which advocates for responsible public procurement practices that benefit local communities. The organization believes that public bodies can use their purchasing power to drive positive social change, fostering inclusive growth and strengthening community ties.

Aspire Community Works has grown from its roots as a charity to become a vital part of London’s community business landscape, helping tackle deep-rooted social issues through employment, training, and advocacy.

Frameworks

• DPS Supporting Facilities Management