December 2024 - Spike Global

As 2024 comes to an end, we reflect on a meaningful year working alongside Hope for Food, our chosen charity partner. At the start of the year, we committed to making a difference in our local community by supporting their vital mission to combat food poverty and provide assistance to vulnerable individuals.

Hope for Food work tirelessly to ensure that no one in our area goes hungry, offering meals, food parcels, and support services to those in need. Their dedication to community well-being perfectly aligns with our values at Spike, and we are proud to have supported their efforts through volunteering, fundraising, and donations.

Volunteering: Supporting the Community Hands-On

Community Meals Initiative

A key part of our charity work this year was volunteering at Hope for Food’s incredible community meals initiative. Throughout the year, our colleagues generously opened up their own kitchens to prepare and cook a variety of hot meals. Once the meals were ready, serving teams transported them to Hope for Food’s community meals initiative in Bournemouth, where we joined forces with the charity and volunteers to set up tables and help distribute hot meals, clothing, and more, whilst engaging in meaningful conversations with guests, ensuring everyone felt supported and listened to.

The impact of this work was profound. For many guests, it was their first hot meal in days – a simple yet vital necessity that brought comfort and nourishment. The provision of clothing and other essentials addressed immediate physical needs, while the act of engaging in conversation helped alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are closely linked to homelessness.

We were amazed by the number of regular volunteers who dedicate their time to this initiative. Their tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to supporting those in need were truly inspiring. The community meals provided a safe space where individuals are treated with dignity and respect. Witnessing the strength of our community coming together in solidarity and compassion was a humbling experience and one that left a lasting impression on all of us.

Food Bank Donations

To further support Hope for Food, we delivered food donations filled with essential items to help restock the charity’s shelves. These contributions included pantry staples, toiletries, and other necessities, providing support to families in our local area.

As part of this initiative, we set up a food donation box in our office, where staff could contribute items such as tinned goods, tea bags, and pasta sauces. This simple effort fostered a spirit of generosity among our team. By working together, we were able to meet immediate needs and help families facing food insecurity.

Fundraising: Uniting for a Cause

Run Bournemouth 2024

A highlight of our charity efforts was our participation in Run Bournemouth 2024. In October, a team of Spike colleagues took to the streets, running the Supersonic 10k route to raise funds and awareness for Hope for Food.

The event was more than just a race; it was a chance to come together as a team, push our limits, and show solidarity for a cause that supports so many. The energy of the day, shared with colleagues and members of the community, exemplified the spirit of our commitment. The funds raised went directly to Hope for Food’s invaluable work in providing meals and essential support services.

Bournemouth Plane Pull 2024

We also joined forces with Burns Hamilton, Dorset Mind, and Lyall Coffee to take part in the Bournemouth Plane Pull on the August bank holiday. This unique challenge involved pulling a 37,000kg Boeing 737 in just 43 seconds, all in support of Dorset Mind’s vital mental health services.

Thanks to the combined efforts of everyone involved, we raised close to £5,000, helping to support Dorset Mind’s mission to provide essential mental health services. The Plane Pull wasn’t just about strength – it was a powerful statement about our commitment to supporting those battling mental health challenges and promoting awareness in our community.

Macmillan Coffee Morning

We also held a Macmillan Coffee Morning to support those living with cancer. Staff brought in a delightful array of cakes, pastries, and other treats, creating a feast that not only satisfied sweet cravings but also raised over £500.

These funds will help Macmillan continue their incredible work, funding nurses and support lines for individuals and families affected by cancer. This event highlighted the generosity and community spirit of the Spike team, showcasing our dedication to making a difference across various causes.

A Year of Compassion and Collaboration

Through a combination of volunteering efforts, fundraising activities, and the incredible support of our colleagues and partners, we’ve made a tangible difference in supporting vital community initiatives this year. Together, we raised significant funds and contributed countless hours to help Hope for Food and other charitable causes. These efforts provided essential resources such as meals, clothing, and support services for vulnerable individuals and families.

The impact of our charity work extended beyond financial contributions. By organising volunteering and fundraising events, we brought our team closer together, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie and purpose. These shared experiences strengthened our company culture, creating a more collaborative, compassionate, and engaged workplace. The benefits of these efforts were felt not only by the communities we supported but also within Spike, as staff well-being and morale flourished.

Thank you to Hope for Food

Hope for Food’s unwavering dedication and hard work have been truly inspiring throughout our partnership. Their tireless efforts to combat food poverty and support those in need have had a profound impact on the local community. It has been an honour to work alongside their incredible team this year, and we have learned so much from their expertise and passion.

As our Charity of the Year for 2024, Hope for Food set a remarkable example of what can be achieved when we work together to support those in need. This partnership has not only made a difference in the lives of others but has also left a lasting impression on everyone here at Spike.

Learn more about Hope for Food and how you can support their work here.

What’s next?

As this year draws to a close, we’re excited to build on the momentum of our 2024 initiatives and continue our commitment to giving back.

Stay tuned for the announcement of our 2025 Charity of the Year in January, we can’t wait to embark on another impactful journey!

2024 has been a year of significant transformation for the property industry, marked by stricter regulations, economic challenges, and evolving social expectations. These dynamics have demanded adaptability, innovation, and resilience from property managers and solution providers alike.

At Spike, we have embraced these challenges, adapting and enhancing our solutions to empower our clients and meet the ever-changing demands of the industry. Here’s how we’ve supported our clients in overcoming the year’s most pressing challenges:

1.) Addressing Stricter Building Safety Legislation

The Building Safety Act, which has brought on other critical regulations such as Awaab’s Law and The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024, has mandated that building operations implement robust building safety strategies.

These changes are not merely recommendations, but legal requirements designed to enhance safety and accountability. The introduction of these measures has intensified the demand for effective tools to manage compliance and communication.

Spike has risen to the challenge by enhancing Spike Living to meet these new legislative demands. Our platform empowers property operators to achieve the ‘golden thread’ of building safety and boost compliance by providing:

Centralised Document Management and Information Sharing

Our platform enables secure document sharing, allowing property managers to upload and distribute essential materials such as floorplans, fire evacuation plans, and resident engagement strategies. This functionality supports compliance with legal requirements while ensuring residents have access to critical safety information at all times.

Resident Maintenance Handling

Residents can easily submit maintenance queries through the platform, ensuring property management teams can view and resolve these issues quickly. This system enhances the speed and efficiency of maintenance handling, ensuring issues are addressed in a timely manner. This not only helps meet resident expectations for service but also prevents potential safety concerns from escalating, maintaining compliance and resident trust.

Scheduling and Automation of Maintenance Tasks

Our platform automates the scheduling and reminders for routine maintenance tasks such as fire door inspections and ventilation checks. This proactive approach is essential for compliance with building safety legislation, including Awaab’s Law, which prioritises mould prevention and overall fire safety. By automating these checks, property managers can stay ahead of required standards, ensuring that crucial safety measures are consistently carried out, reducing risks and safeguarding the wellbeing of residents.

Streamlined Communication

Real-time updates and announcements ensure that residents receive critical safety information promptly. Residents are also able to access the concierge around the clock with the build in live chat feature. By integrating automated notifications and a user-friendly interface, Spike Living fosters transparency and builds trust between residents.

Audit Trails to Achieve the Golden Thread

Our platform automatically tracks all interactions, document exchanges, and updates. This clear, accessible record is invaluable for demonstrating compliance, aiding building operators in adhering to stringent legal requirements.

As well as many more features which have been instrumental in helping the industry tackle the complex demands of the new legislation while prioritising resident safety and confidence.

2.) Supporting Property Managers and Residents Through Economic Pressures and Wellness Challenges

Economic challenges, including inflation and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, as well as the property management shortage, have placed increased strain on both property managers and residents.

Simultaneously, societal shifts have amplified the importance of health, wellness, and community connections. Residents now prioritise living environments that support mental and physical well-being, seeking spaces that foster social interaction, sustainability, and personal growth.

Spike Living addresses these intertwined concerns by offering tools and integrations that streamline operations while fostering well-being:

Resident Wellness

Spike Living’s enables property managers to create healthier, more connected communities by providing features designed to support both physical and mental well-being. Through the platform, managers can promote wellness-focused events, such as yoga classes or mental health workshops, and facilitate access to amenities designed for relaxation or fitness. By fostering such initiatives, property managers can enhance resident satisfaction and create a more vibrant sense of community.

Property Management Wellness

Recognising the pressures faced by property management teams, Spike Living introduces automation tools that alleviate administrative burdens. By digitising repetitive tasks such as maintenance scheduling, rent collection, and document sharing, the platform allows teams to focus on high-value activities, reducing stress and improving productivity. These efficiencies, coupled with seamless integrations like Fixflo or Quadient, streamline operations and maintain high service standards, contributing to better work-life balance for property managers.

These features not only improve the well-being of communities but also help property managers navigate economic pressures, elevating the overall value and appeal of residential developments.

3.) Championing Sustainability Amid Tightening Energy Efficiency Standards

With governments prioritising energy efficiency and climate action, 2024 has seen the introduction of measures to meet ambitious carbon neutrality and energy efficiency goals.

The Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) has mandated stricter energy ratings for residential properties across Europe, impacting residential property management practices. Additionally, the cost of energy has remained high, increasing the urgency for sustainable practices to reduce costs and emissions.

With sustainability a top priority, property managers have turned to digital solutions to minimise their environmental impact. Spike Living has been a valuable partner in this transition, offering features that support greener property management practices:

Paper-Free Operations

Spike Living is entirely digitised, allowing property managers to operate without paper. This approach supports sustainability by reducing waste, contributing to more eco-friendly management practices, and enhancing operational efficiency.

Energy Initiatives and Community Engagement

Through the portal, managers can promote green living initiatives, such as community recycling programmes or energy-saving tips, fostering a culture of sustainability among residents. This can be facilitated through the event booking feature, dedicated sustainability forums and more.

Future Ready: Innovating for Tomorrow’s Property Management

As 2024 comes to a close, Spike remains committed to continuous innovation and adaptability. We understand that the challenges faced this year are just the start of an ongoing industry-wide transformation. By staying ahead of legislative, economic, and social changes, we aim to empower property managers and operators to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.

Spike Living is continuously scalable and adaptable, designed to grow with the needs of our clients and the changing property management landscape. Through continuous advancements in our technology and anticipation of future trends, we help our clients not just overcome challenges, but excel in delivering exceptional resident experiences.

Ready to make 2025 your most successful year yet? Get in touch today to see how Spike Living can transform your property management strategy.