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Spike Nominated for The Property Management Awards 2024

We are excited to announce that Spike has been shortlisted for the PropTech Innovation category at the prestigious News On The Block Property Management Awards (PMAs) 2024. This nomination celebrates our commitment to driving technological innovation within the property management sector, recognising Spike as a leader in transforming property operations and resident engagement through our revolutionary technology solutions.

 

A Year of Innovation and Excellence 

Over the past 12 months, Spike has focused on driving efficiencies, enhancing communication, and ensuring compliance across the property management sector. We are proud to be trusted by over 100 property management companies worldwide, serving more than 100,000 residential units. In 2024, we launched a significant software upgrade, making our market-leading resident engagement platform, Spike Living, even more user-friendly, allowing property managers to streamline day-to-day operations, automate manual tasks, and gain greater visibility over building safety and resident engagement.

 

Spike Living has helped clients reduce communication time by 89% and time spent on repetitive tasks by 76%. With an average 87% adoption rate of our resident app, we are leading the way in transforming the property management experience, delivering tangible results to our clients.

Shaping the Future of Property Management 

Spike’s platform is at the forefront of innovation, enabling property professionals to automate routine processes, centralise data, and significantly improve their operational efficiency. By integrating with finance, CRM, and maintenance systems, we offer a holistic view of property management operations. With Spike, tasks like service charge updates, defect reporting, and fire safety communications are simplified, and essential information is accessible to residents, ensuring compliance with the Building Safety Act 2022.

 

The industry’s adoption of technology is critical, and Spike is proud to be part of the movement that helps property managers modernise their operations and create safer, more engaged communities.

 

Leading the Way in Resident Engagement and Compliance 

Our technology is not just about improving efficiency; it’s about creating stronger, more transparent relationships between property managers, tenants, and leaseholders.

 

As the Hackitt inquiry highlighted, the lack of access to safety information and poor engagement with residents can have severe consequences. Spike Living ensures that building managers remain compliant, while also giving residents the tools they need to manage their own properties effectively.

 

With Spike, property professionals have the technology they need to meet today’s challenges, while preparing for the future of the property industry.

 

Celebrating Industry Achievements 

We are incredibly grateful to the judges for considering Spike for this award and recognising our contribution to the industry. The award ceremony will take place on 21st November 2024 at City Central, at the HAC, and we look forward to celebrating the achievements of the sector alongside the most forward-thinking companies in property management.

 

For the full award shortlist, click here. 

 

Thank you once again for this honour, and we look forward to continuing our journey of innovation and excellence in the property management industry.

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Insight

Running for a Cause: Spike Supports Hope for Food at Run Bournemouth 2024

Last Sunday, team Spike joined thousands of runners for the annual Run Bournemouth 2024 event, with Jack, Aaron, and Ben taking on the Supersonic 10k route. The race started at Hengistbury Head and ended at the iconic Bournemouth Pier, with our team powering through the scenic coastal course – all in the name of raising awareness and funds for Hope for Food, our Charity of the Year.


At Spike, community is at the core of our values, and supporting charities like Hope for Food is a natural extension of that commitment. Hope for Food is a charity close to our hearts because of the vital services they provide to individuals and families in need. Their work ensures people have access to meals, food parcels, clothing, and basic household items, giving hope and dignity to those facing hardship. We are proud to support their mission, as it aligns with our dedication to building strong and supportive communities.

Participating in this event wasn’t just about crossing the finish line, it was about running with purpose; to make a tangible impact on our community and support those in need within our local communities. Hope for Food tirelessly works to combat food insecurity, and by running this race, Jack, Aaron, and Ben aimed to make a meaningful contribution to their efforts. 


We couldn’t be prouder of their dedication and hard work in training and running the 10km. Taking on the challenge wasn’t easy, but their strong performances, combined with their commitment to the cause, made their efforts even more impactful.


We’d also like to extend a massive thank you to everyone who has donated so far. Your contributions directly support Hope for Food’s mission, and if you haven’t had the chance yet, there’s still time to get involved. Every bit helps make a difference to those facing hardship in our community. You can donate through our JustGiving page here.

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Insight

Spike Nominated for The Negotiator Awards 2024

We are delighted to share that Spike has been nominated for the Supplier of the Year (Technology) – Apps award at The Negotiator Awards 2024!

 

This nomination is a testament to our dedication to delivering innovative solutions that address the most pressing challenges in property management today. By streamlining processes, improving compliance, and elevating tenant engagement, Spike is not just a technology provider – we’re a partner in creating safe, connected, and vibrant communities.

Tackling the Challenges in Property Management

The property management landscape is facing unprecedented challenges due to recent changes in building safety legislation, evolving tenant expectations, and the increased emphasis on community engagement. At Spike, we understand that property managers are juggling complex tasks – whether it’s ensuring compliance with regulatory changes, fostering a sense of community, or maintaining seamless communication with tenants and leaseholders. 

 

A recent survey by the Health and Safety Executive found that only 50% of tenants are satisfied with their building management companies. This statistic highlights the pressing need for improved communication and transparency, and it’s an area where our solutions have made a significant impact. 

How Spike Are Addressing Current Needs

Our solutions are designed to address the most pressing challenges in the industry. Here’s how our solutions stand out:

 

  1. Compliance with Building Safety Legislation: Spike’s platform offers property managers full visibility of every tenant and leaseholder within a building, making it easier to stay compliant. 
  2. Enhanced Communication: Communication breakdowns have long been a pain point in the sector. With Spike’s tenant portal, we have achieved an impressive 87% uptake across our client base, allowing for effortless, direct communication via push notifications and real-time updates. This ensures that tenants and leaseholders receive essential information promptly and have access to a self-service platform, reducing the need for direct contact. 
  3. Automating Manual Processes: Property managers often spend up to 288 hours annually on repetitive tasks, such as service charge notifications and defect reporting. Our system automates these tasks, resulting in an 89% reduction in communication time and a 76% decrease in time spent on repetitive processes, freeing up managers to focus on delivering exceptional service. 
  4. Centralised Data and Integration: Spike integrates seamlessly with finance, CRM, and maintenance systems, providing a single, unified view for property managers. This centralised approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also strengthens the golden thread of information, ensuring that all data is easily accessible and up-to-date.
Summary

As we continue to adapt and develop our solutions, we remain committed to supporting property managers, tenants, and leaseholders with solutions that not only meet their current needs, but also anticipate future challenges. Our focus on combining technology, community engagement, and regulatory compliance ensures that we remain at the forefront of property management. 

 

As we eagerly await The Negotiator Awards gala dinner at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London, on 29th November 2024, we extend our gratitude to the judges for recognising Spike’s contributions to the industry.

 

Congratulations to all the finalists who made the shortlist! We’re looking forward to an exciting night celebrating innovation, excellence, and the future of the residential property industry.

 

See the full shortlist here.

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Insight

Awaab’s Law: What You Need to Know to Stay Compliant

As a property manager in the residential sector, ensuring the health, safety, and satisfaction of your tenants is paramount. 

 

The recent introduction of Awaab’s Law, a pivotal part of the Social Housing Regulation Act 2023, is set to extend its reach into the private rental sector. This landmark legislation mandates stringent timelines for landlords to address hazards such as mould and damp, enhancing the living conditions for renters.


Understanding Awaab’s Law 

Awaab’s Law was introduced following the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak, whose respiratory condition was linked to mould in his social housing residence. The law, driven by the campaign efforts of Awaab’s parents, supported by Manchester Evening News and Shelter, seeks to prevent such incidents by imposing specific timelines for addressing mould and damp complaints:

 

  • Investigate hazards within 14 calendar days of receiving a complaint. 
  • Provide a written report of the findings. 
  • Begin repairs within 7 calendar days if the hazard poses significant risks to health or safety. 
  • Complete repair work within a reasonable timeframe. 
  • Complete emergency repairs within 24 hours. 
  • Maintain clear records of all correspondence with tenants and contractors.

With statistics showing that 14.2% of people privately renting in the UK are experiencing Category 1 hazards, including dangerous forms of damp and mould, the law aims to improve living conditions and protect tenants.

 

Labour’s pledge to extend Awaab’s Law to private landlords means that property managers need a reliable system to manage and document maintenance issues in order to adhere to these timelines. 

 

How can Technology Can Help? 

With 81% of tenants saying that it’s important or very important for them to be able to access a portal from a mobile device, it’s paramount that you have a system in place that is mobile-friendly. This will encourage tenants to report issues when they spot them rather than having to wait until they are back in front of a computer or at the front desk.

 

What’s more, The Health and Safety Executive revealed that 4 in 10 tenants think it’s difficult to raise an issue, whilst maintenance issues take up to 80% of a property managers time. Without a central system in place, tenants will use email, WhatsApp messages or text messages to report issues. Sporadic messages and using different channels make it challenging for property managers to keep track of what has been reported and run the risk of duplicating reports, making it even harder to keep tenants updated on the progress. Not to mention making it almost impossible to track against Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and performance metrics for response times.

 

Spike offers robust, innovative solutions to help property managers not only meet these compliance requirements, but also significantly improve tenant satisfaction. Here’s how Spike’s solutions can streamline your operations and ensure your properties remain compliant:

1.) Streamlined Reporting Process 

Our comprehensive maintenance reporting module is designed to help property managers meet these new compliance standards efficiently. The platform offers a seamless way to manage maintenance requests, ensuring that issues are addressed promptly and thoroughly.

 

Tenants can easily log maintenance issues through an app, allowing staff to receive real-time notifications on their management dashboard and ensures immediate action, driving tenant satisfaction. 

 

2.) Increased Transparency 

Two-way communication is facilitated through the platform, allowing tenants to receive updates on their requests and maintenance staff to communicate directly with them. For instance requesting additional information or clarification on an issue, as well as arranging a suitable time for an inspection.  

 

3.) Efficient Tracking and Prioritisation 

Property managers can track all maintenance requests through a centralised management dashboard. Issues can be prioritised based on their severity, ensuring that high-risk problems are addressed first. 

 

4.) Enhanced Response Times 

By streamlining the maintenance process, Spike helps speed up response times, ensures that complaints are investigated within the mandated 14-day period, repairs are initiated within the 7-day window, and facilitates the swift management of emergency repairs within the 24-hour timeframe.

 

This also leads to higher tenant satisfaction, as timely repairs are a key factor in positive reviews. 

 

5.) Detailed Documentation 

The platform maintains a clear audit trail of all correspondence, with all activities logged against a property and tenant, helping property managers comply with the record-keeping requirements of Awaab’s Law. This ensures that every step, from complaint to resolution, is documented, in case of future disputes. 

 

6.) Proactive Fault Diagnosis 

As tenants can attach photos to their maintenance requests, this allows maintenance teams to diagnose issues ahead of time and arrive prepared with the necessary tools and parts. This increases the likelihood of fixing the issue in their first visit and reduces response times by 30%.

 

Property Managers can also benefit from Spike’s powerful reporting module, allowing them to spot any wider issues which could lead to mould, such as leaking internal pipes or poor ventilation, thereby identifying the root causes of damp and mould in the development before it can escalate or spread further. Furthermore, setting up automated tasks can ensure that routine follow ups or check ins are being conducted to ensure these potential hazards are being monitored and addressed.

Summary

As the residential sector braces for the extension of Awaab’s Law, property managers must adopt systems that ensure compliance and elevate tenant satisfaction. Spike’s solutions offer comprehensive maintenance reporting, transparent communication, and efficient tracking of issues. By integrating Spike technology into your property management operations, you can provide safer, healthier, and happier homes for your tenants, ensuring that the demands of Awaab’s Law are not just met, but exceeded.   

 

For more information on how Spike’s innovative solutions can help you meet compliance requirements and improve tenant satisfaction, book a demo today. 

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Insight

A Celebration of Culture and Community: Spike’s Second Experience with Hope for Food

Selected by our staff, as Spike’s chosen Charity of the Year for 2024, Hope for Food is a volunteer-driven charity dedicated to providing essential services to individuals and families facing homelessness, poverty, and food insecurity in our local area. Their mission, built on respect and dignity, aligns perfectly with our own company values.


Our last distribution drive with Hope for Food was incredibly rewarding and left a lasting impression on everyone involved. So, with great anticipation, we embarked on our latest initiative, eager to build on the positive experiences of the past. This time, we decided to infuse a bit of cultural flavour into the community meals by introducing a beloved South Indian dish: vegetable biryani.


Bringing Cultures Together Through Food

In a bid to diversify the meals we provided at the community event, Sriya and Shimna, part of our Quality Assurance team, kindly took time out of their day to cook 45 portions of vegetable biryani.


Hailing from South India, this dish holds a special place in their hearts, and they were proud to share it with the community. By sharing this dish, they hoped to offer the community not just a meal, but a taste of their culture and a piece of their home. Biryani is also a favourite when brought in for our office socials and gatherings! 

 

The Power of a Shared Meal

The sight of the cooked biryani drew smiles and sparked curiosity among the guests, as many of them had never heard of biriyani before, let alone tried it. Our distribution team, alongside Hope for Food volunteers, eagerly served the hot meals, ensuring everyone had a helping of this delicious dish. 

 

In addition to our contribution, we were delighted to work alongside Leah from White Elephant (By Sala Thai), a local, family-run Thai restaurant that regularly volunteers their time and culinary expertise. They prepared delicious Thai curry dishes for the community meal distribution. The combination of Indian biryani and Thai curry offered a unique and delightful dining experience for the guests, showcasing the rich diversity of flavours from different cultures.


Beyond just serving food, the team engaged with the guests, helping to clean up, hand out toiletries and fresh produce, and most importantly, offer a listening ear. Many of the guests face loneliness and hardship, and the simple act of sharing a meal and a conversation can make a significant difference in their lives. 

 

A Taste of Home, a Touch of Care

The guests appreciated the effort of bringing something new and flavourful to the table. One guest remarked, “I’ve never had this before and didn’t know if I would like it, but I’m glad I tried it, it was delicious.” This sentiment was echoed by many others, who expressed gratitude for the warmth and friendliness of all those who volunteered their time to take part in the community meals.


For Sriya and Shimna, this experience was particularly meaningful. They were able to share a piece of their heritage and see the joy it brought to others. It was a reminder of how food can bridge cultural divides and bring people together in unexpected ways.

 

Reflections and Looking Forward

Our second experience with Hope for Food reinforced the importance of community and the power of kindness. It was heartening to see how a simple dish like biryani could bring so much joy and comfort. This event also highlighted the value of cultural exchange and the ways in which our diverse backgrounds can enrich the lives of others. 


As we look forward to future collaborations with Hope for Food, we are inspired to continue exploring new ways to support and uplift the community. Whether through meals, conversations, or shared experiences, we are committed to making a positive impact. 


You can help support their fantastic work here. 

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Insight

Leveraging Technology to Create Healthier, Connected Communities 

In a world where connectivity is abundant, we ironically find ourselves less connected to the physical world than ever before. With 75% of residents expressing a desire to expand their social network and get to know their neighbours, it’s clear that many crave access to a connected community. Yet less than 40% feel they belong in their community.

 

What’s more, a recent study by the National Multifamily Housing Council found that resident satisfaction is strongly correlated with retention rates. Communities with higher resident satisfaction scores tend to experience lower turnover rates, with 75% of residents reporting that addressing wellbeing is important to community management.

 

With this in mind, developers are increasingly looking for ways to integrate health and wellness into their core offerings. Technology can play a crucial role in fostering this culture. Here’s how resident engagement portals like Spike Living can help build a wellness-focused community. 

1.) Facilitating communication and connection 

Online Community Clubs and Forums

Resident portals like Spike Living empower residents to meet their neighbours via online clubs and forums, then organise real-life meetups whenever they feel ready. From fitness clubs for activities like running, walking, and cycling to clubs focused on living with particular health issues, these groups encourage residents to stay active and build strong social connections. Unlike traditional social media, Spike Living can only be accessed by residents, ensuring that they are communicating with genuine neighbours without the risk of scammers and strangers.

 

Event Notifications 

Findings from the HomeViews Build to Rent Report 2024 indicate that residents participating in community challenges are 20% more likely to report higher levels of overall satisfaction with their living environment. By providing the ability for developers and operators to promote events directly to residents via the Spike Living app, this can increase participation by 46%, and as events can be ticketed, this allows staff to know in advance how many residents to expect.

 

In addition, community challenges are a fun and effective way to engage residents and promote a culture of wellness. Spike Living makes it easy to organise and manage fitness challenges such as step count competitions, cycling miles, or group workout sessions. Residents can track their progress and see how they rank against their neighbours, adding a friendly competitive element. As well as encouraging residents to participate in healthy eating challenges by sharing recipes, creating cooking workshops, and tracking participants’ progress through the portal. 

2.) Promoting Mental and Physical Health 

Access to Amenities 

According to Mind UK, there are numerous studies that reveal how physical exercise can improve mental health, from lifting moods, to improving sleep and a great way to connect with others.

 

By utilising  Spike Living, residents can view and book available fitness classes and amenities within a few taps, all from the comfort and convenience of their homes. Spike Living also allows amenities and fitness classes to be ticketed and chargeable, providing an additional revenue stream for property managers.

 

Access to Information

Recent statistics from HomeViews’ 2023 Build to Rent (BTR) report show that communities with regular health and wellness communications have a 15% higher engagement rate among residents, demonstrating the impact of consistent and valuable information on resident participation.

 

Resident portals like Spike Living allow developers to share regular articles, tips, and updates related to health and wellness. Whether it’s advice on maintaining a balanced diet, the benefits of regular exercise, or mental health support, these updates keep residents informed and motivated. In addition, developers can also create and schedule monthly newsletters that highlight upcoming events, success stories from residents, and new health initiatives within the community.

3.) Fostering a Sense of Belonging 

Over 80% of residents report that they want to live in a neighbourhood with a thriving array of local businesses, Spike Living’s around me feature encourages newcomers to explore their local area by providing a guide to all the places around them, and by partnering with local businesses, residents can benefit from exclusive discounts, encouraging them to fall in love with their independent chains. 

Summary

Technology plays a pivotal role in building a strong community culture around health and wellness by facilitating communication, promoting education, encouraging physical activity and mental well-being. As operators continue to navigate the demands of modern living, integrating resident engagement portals like Spike Living into their developments is not just beneficial – it’s essential.

 

Looking for more ideas on how to incorporate health and wellness events into your development? Download our 2024 Community Engagement Guide, which outlines numerous health and wellness related events throughout the year.

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Building a Compassionate Community: Spike’s Volunteer Experience with Hope for Food

Our recent volunteer work at Hope for Food‘s community meals initiative was not only a humbling experience, but also a powerful reminder of the positive impact that community service can have on both those we help and ourselves.

 

Selected by our staff, as Spike’s chosen Charity of the Year for 2024, Hope for Food is a volunteer-driven charity dedicated to providing essential services to individuals and families facing homelessness, poverty, and food insecurity in our local area. Their mission, built on respect and dignity, aligns perfectly with our own company values.

Understanding the Need

 

The issue of food insecurity in the UK has reached alarming levels, with 7.2 million people living in ‘food insecure’ households in 2022/23, an increase of 2.5 million since the previous year. In light of these staggering statistics, we were determined to take action in our own local community here in Bournemouth.

 

Hope for Food supports around 160 families each week with food parcels, fresh produce, toiletries, and household cleaning packs. They also cater to the homeless and vulnerably housed by providing food, drinks, clothing, bedding, and other essentials to 600 guests each month, on a twice weekly basis. Their comprehensive support system responds to both general needs and specific requests from social and support workers, ensuring a wide-reaching impact. 

 

Our Volunteering Experience

 

Our staff split into two teams for this initiative. The cooking team prepared over 40 portions of shepherd’s pie and 5 vegetarian options, thanks to the generosity of a colleague who offered their kitchen.

 

The second team was responsible for packing the meals, ready for distribution at the community meals. This collaborative effort highlighted the strength of teamwork and the collective drive to make a difference. 

 

Upon transporting the meals to Hope for Food’s community meals initiative in Bournemouth, we joined the charity in setting up tables to distribute a variety of items. These included sandwiches, cakes, soup, hot drinks, clothes, books, and more to the 76 guests who attended. Our team members took on various roles, from distributing hot meals to providing clothing, engaging in conversations with guests, and ensuring that everyone felt supported and listened to. 

 

Impact on the Guests

 

The impact on the guests of the community kitchen was profound. Many of them received their first hot meal in days, a simple yet vital necessity that brought comfort and nourishment. The provision of clothing and other essentials also addressed immediate physical needs, while the act of engaging in conversation helped alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are closely linked to homelessness. 

 

The gratitude expressed by the guests was overwhelming. For many, the community meals initiative is not just a place to receive food and clothing, but a safe space where they are treated with dignity and respect. Our presence and willingness to listen and support meant a great deal to them, reaffirming their sense of worth and humanity. 


We were amazed to see the number of volunteers who regularly took part in the community meal initiative. Their dedication and tireless efforts to support those in need were truly inspiring. These regular volunteers are the backbone of the operation, consistently showing up to make a difference in the lives of others. It was heartening to witness how our community comes together to support one another, embodying the spirit of solidarity and compassion. 

 

 

Benefits to the Local Community

 

Helping our local community benefits us all in multiple ways. It fosters a sense of solidarity and mutual support, strengthening the social fabric that binds us together. When we support those in need, we create a more inclusive and compassionate community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Additionally, addressing issues like food insecurity and homelessness can lead to broader societal benefits, such as improved public health and reduced social costs.

 

For us at Spike, the experience was deeply fulfilling. It provided a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when we come together to support our community. We left the community meal initiative with a renewed sense of purpose and pride, knowing that our efforts had made a tangible difference in the lives of others. It was an eye-opening experience, one that has inspired us to continue seeking ways to contribute to the well-being of our community. 

 

Support Hope for Food

 

To sustain and expand the invaluable work of Hope for Food, we encourage everyone to consider supporting their initiatives. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every bit of help can make a significant impact. Together, we can ensure that no one in our community has to face hunger or homelessness alone.

 

You can help support their fantastic work here. 

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Insight

Spike nominated for the Property Week Resi Awards 2024

We are pleased to share that Spike has been nominated for the Technology Innovator of the Year Award at the Property Week Resi Awards 2024, recognising Spike’s dedication to driving change in the residential sector through its cutting-edge technology solutions. 

 

In 2023, we saw a surge in demand for our solutions, both nationally and internationally, with our award-winning resident engagement portal now deployed across more than 500 buildings in 15 countries. Along with new partnerships with industry-leading names such as Casa by Moda, Niche Living, and Baxter Homes emphasising Spike’s position as a pioneer in reshaping the residential landscape. 

 

Research has shown that a significant percentage of our happiness is tied to the quality of our living environment, highlighting the importance of ensuring a positive and convenient residential experience.

 

Spike Living addresses this by offering a comprehensive suite of features, including centralised document management, the ability to book onsite amenities and services, maintenance reporting, direct messaging with staff, and much more, all aimed at enhancing residents’ daily lives. 

 

Furthermore, Spike Living also serves as a bridge between residential communities and local businesses, revitalising the local economy while enriching the resident experience. Through strategic alliances and integrations, Spike ensures that residents have access to exclusive discounts and services, forging stronger relationship between residential developments and their surroundings. 

 

As we eagerly anticipate the Property Week Resi Awards ceremony on Wednesday 1st May 2024, at Grosvenor House, London, we extend our gratitude to the judges for recognising Spike’s contributions to the industry.

 

Congratulations to all the finalists who made the shortlist! We’re looking forward to an exciting night celebrating innovation, excellence, and the future of residential living.  

 

See the full shortlist here.  

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Spike are #InvestingInWomen this International Women’s Day 2024

“If you invest in a women, you’re investing in everyone else.” Melinda Gates

 

International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women around the world. At Spike, we are proud to join in the celebration by honouring the incredible and talented women who are an integral part of our team.

 

This year, the UN’s International Women’s Day theme, #InvestinWomen: Accelerate Progress, resonates deeply with us. We understand the importance of investing in women’s potential and creating opportunities for them to thrive in the workplace. In the tech industry, where women have historically been underrepresented, it’s imperative that we actively support and empower female talent. 

 

Currently women make up only 26% of the tech industry workforce. Despite this, their contributions are invaluable, and their presence is crucial for driving innovation and diversity in the field. 

 

At Spike, we are committed to breaking down gender barriers and creating a supportive and inclusive environment for all employees. We do not tolerate any form of gender discrimination or pay gap, and we have implemented various initiatives to ensure that women feel equal, empowered, and respected. 

Here are some ways that Spike are actively investing in women:

Encouraging retention and recruitment: We strive to give equal opportunities to women from diverse backgrounds and encourage them to bring their unique talents and perspectives to our team. 

 

Investing in training and career development: We provide ongoing training, one-to-ones and support to help everyone advance in their careers and reach their full potential. 

 

Promoting work-life balance: We offer flexible working arrangements to accommodate the needs of employees with family or health commitments, ensuring that no-one has to sacrifice their personal well-being for their career. 

 

Encouraging social engagement and wellbeing: We actively organise social and charity events, from bowling, nights out, cinema trips, charity initiatives and more to encourage a sense of inclusion and camaraderie. 

 

Ensuring equal pay: We are committed to eliminating any gender pay gap within our organisation. 

 

Encouraging communication and participation: We actively seek input from female team members and include them in decision-making processes to ensure that their voices are heard and valued. 

An Empowering Ladies Lunch:

One of the highlights of our celebration was the empowering ladies lunch, where our female team members came together to celebrate our collective efforts and successes. It was a time to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of women in shaping the landscape of technology and driving innovation forward. Over delicious food and engaging conversations, we reflected on the challenges and triumphs we’ve experienced as women working in tech, while also celebrating the progress we’ve made. 

 

In addition to meaningful conversations, we incorporated fun activities into our celebration to strengthen bonds. We organised quizzes and games that sparked laughter and camaraderie, providing an opportunity for our team members to relax and enjoy each other’s company. These moments of levity are essential in fostering a sense of unity and solidarity among our diverse team of women. 

Summary

As we celebrated International Women’s Day, we also took the time to recognise the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We reaffirmed our commitment to creating an environment where all voices are heard and respected, regardless of gender or background. By embracing diversity, we harness the power of different perspectives and experiences, driving innovation and creativity within our team. 

 

At Spike, we are proud to honour the incredible women who contribute to our success every day. As we come together to celebrate our achievements and empower one another, we are reminded of the limitless potential of women in shaping the future of technology. 

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Spike Selects Hope for Food as Charity of the Year 2024

After the success of last year’s charity initiative with Dorset Mind, we are thrilled to announce our 2024 Charity of the Year as Hope for Food. 

 

Selected by staff, Hope for Food is a volunteer-driven charity with a noble mission: provide basic necessities to those in our local area who are homeless or living in poverty. Their efforts include providing meals and food parcels, clothing distribution, and supplying small household goods. Hope for Food operates with deep respect and dignity, offering help to anyone in need, judgement-free.

 

During their Christmas appeal, Hope for Food, distributed 428 Christmas food parcels and over 1,750 selection boxes to children, along with 234 regular food parcels. Beyond food, they also provided gift vouchers, stocking fillers, and gift bags to families and individuals in refuges or supported housing, including four hostels which they support. This ensured that the festive spirit was felt by all, regardless of their circumstances.

 

In their ongoing mission, Hope for Food consistently supports around 160 families weekly with food parcels, fresh produce, toiletries, and household cleaning packs. They also cater to the community’s broader needs by providing food, drinks, clothing, shoes, bedding, tents/sleeping bags and other essential items on a twice weekly basis to the homeless, rough sleepers and vulnerably housed. As well as responding to specific requests from social and support workers, demonstrating a commitment to addressing both general and specific needs within the community.

 

Although they received remarkable support during the holiday season, the charity is now facing a drastic decrease in donations, averaging just 2-3 donations per week. Spike is committed to helping the charity maintain it’s essential food, clothing and household item supplies to that they can continue supporting those in need.  

 
As part of our partnership with Hope for Food, our team will be participating in a wide range of activities, including volunteering at Hope for Food’s meal distribution drives, soup kitchens, providing donations for food, clothing and essential items, as well as taking part in fundraising events to support Hope for Food’s mission to assist less fortunate households and families in our community.  

 
We invite our clients, partners, friends and members of our community to join us in making a difference by supporting Hope for Food throughout 2024. Together, we can contribute to a brighter future for those facing hardship. 

 

You can see all the fantastic work Hope for Food are doing and donate here