South East Water awarded gold membership in The 5% Club esteemed 2024-25 Employer Audit Scheme

South East Water has been awarded gold accredited membership as part of The 5% Club’s esteemed 2024-25 Employer Audit Scheme(opens in a new tab), placing the company among the leading employers in workplace learning. This accolade recognises its unwavering commitment to empowering its employees through “earn & learn” initiatives such as apprenticeships, graduate schemes, and early career opportunities.

Achieving gold status is testament to South East Water’s dedication to cultivating the professional growth and development of its employees. Through programmes that offer hands-on learning, it is creating pathways for professional growth, equipping its workforce with the skills and confidence they need to thrive in their careers.

By being part of The 5% Club, South East Water stands alongside over 1,000 forward-thinking employers who are dedicated to driving positive change. The organisation represents a powerful movement of companies working together to make workplace training more inclusive, diverse, and accessible. Its employer audit rigorously assesses an organisation’s efforts, future ambitions, and commitment to social mobility, diversity, and inclusion.

Siân Jenkins, Head of Human Resources at South East Water, commented: “We are very proud to have achieved gold status in The 5% Club. Investing in the next generation and providing opportunities for professional and personal growth is at the heart of our workforce strategy.

“Through our programmes that offer hands-on learning, we are creating pathways for professional growth, equipping our staff with the skills and confidence they need to thrive. This year we welcomed over 60 apprentices through our doors and we look forward to continuing our support for trainees, apprentices and graduates across the business.”

Mark Cameron OBE, Chief Executive at The 5% Club, commented: “We are incredibly proud of the outstanding employers, like South East Water, who have gone above and beyond to invest in the future of their workforce through a diverse range of 'earn and learn' initiatives.

“Their dedication, especially during these challenging times, deserves to be celebrated. By achieving gold membership, South East Water has shown an exceptional commitment to shaping the skills of tomorrow, contributing not only to their business but to the wider economy.”

Gill Cronin, Director of Operations at The 5% Club, added: "It is inspiring to witness the dedication and passion our members bring to providing meaningful career development opportunities. South East Water’s gold membership highlights their leadership in creating impactful learning environments that prioritise inclusion and diversity.

“As we see 20% of our members reaching these prestigious tiers, it’s a true reflection of how companies like South East Water are laying the groundwork for the future talent pipeline.”