Division News: Facilities, Repair & Maintenance

Gelder Group brought festive cheer to its head office this season with a company-wide Christmas decorating competition, showcasing the creativity and holiday spirit of its departments. The Facilities Repair and Maintenance office claimed the winning title after dazzling the judge with their exceptional decorations.

This year’s competition saw participation from all departments, each putting their unique spin on the festive season. From elaborate winter wonderlands to intricately themed displays, the contest transformed the office into a hub of Christmas magic and creativity.

Giles Walter, the guest judge for the competition, taking the role very seriously and evaluated all entries based on five key criteria, Creativity and Originality, Theme Consistency,Attention to Detail, Overall Aesthetic Appeal and Festive Spirit.

After careful consideration, the Facilities Repair and Maintenance office stood out, impressing Giles Walter with their innovative design, consistent theme, and keen attention to detail, all while embodying the true festive spirit of the season.

“It was a pleasure to see the incredible effort put in by each department,” said Giles Walter. “The level of creativity and holiday cheer on display was truly inspiring and I particularly enjoyed the Lemon drizzle and Cheesecake on offer.”

Gelder Group has made a significant contribution to digital inclusion efforts by donating 44 desktop PCs and 24 laptops to Framework Housing Association. This donation will bolster Framework’s Digital Inclusion Programme, a transformative initiative designed to empower individuals by bridging the digital divide.

Over the past two years, Framework’s Digital Inclusion Team has re-purposed over 300 laptops into high-speed internet browsing devices by replacing their Windows operating systems with Chrome OS Flex. These devices have been used as kiosks within Framework services, loan machines, or gifted to service users. This innovative approach provides access to essential online tools such as email, office applications via Google Workspace or Microsoft 365, and video conferencing platforms like Zoom and Teams.

The machines enable service users to perform everyday online activities that many take for granted, including:

• Managing finances through online banking
• Contacting healthcare providers
• Sorting energy bills
• Navigating social media and entertainment
• Searching for housing
• Reporting repairs
• Managing Universal Credit journals

Additionally, they are integral to training programs, with Learn My Way serving as the preferred online learning platform at Framework. The devices are managed through Google Management Console, ensuring longevity and efficiency while promoting sustainability.

This latest donation from Gelder Group enhances the Digital Inclusion Programme’s capacity. The 24 laptops will continue to be deployed as kiosks or used in Framework’s Digital Inclusion and Learning Hub.

The donation of 44 desktop PCs presents a new and exciting opportunity. These desktops will be revamped with Zorin, a user-friendly Linux-based operating system. Volunteer Digital Champions will lead the reinstallation and create user manuals to ensure a smooth transition for recipients. Once refurbished, the desktops will be gifted to Framework service users, providing them with essential tools for managing tenancies, accessing online services, and making positive life changes.

“These desktops represent a valuable solution for adults and individuals moving from supported accommodations into independent living,” said Kevin Rookes, Digital Inclusion Coordinator, Skills Plus, Framework. “Devices like these promote safe, responsible internet use and provide vital access for children needing to complete homework or families navigating daily online tasks.”

By supporting this programme, Gelder Group reinforces its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and community empowerment. The donation ensures that Framework service users are not left behind in the digital age and strengthens the organisation’s ability to provide inclusive and equitable services.

For more informaiton on Framework or their Digital Inclusion Programme click here

Jade Sanderson (Gelders), Harry Leak (Gelders),Kevin Rookes (Digital Inclusion Coordinator, Framework), Richard Redmore (Digital IT Support Officer, Framework), and Rob Sanderson (Construction contract manager, Gelders);

Harry Leak (Gelders), Kevin Rookes (Digital Inclusion Coordinator, Framework), Dominic Lee and Jim Mortimer (volunteer Digital Champions*), Richard Redmore (Digital IT Support Officer, Framework),and Jade Sanderson (Gelders)

Ron Finnegan (Fundraising Officer, Framework) and Rob Sanderson (Construction contract manager, Gelders)

This holiday season, Gelder Group is proud to have collaborated with Lincolnshire Housing Partnership (LHP) in a meaningful initiative to support families in need. Thanks to the generosity of Gelder Group staff, hundreds of essential toiletry items have been collected and donated to LHP, addressing a critical gap in support for personal hygiene products within the community.

The collection drive was launched in response to feedback from LHP, which identified that, although food banks provide vital assistance, they often lack personal care items that families need for everyday wellbeing. Through contributions from Gelder Group team members, items including toilet rolls, deodorants, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and soap have now been delivered to local support centres, offering some relief to families during this challenging time of year.

Rob Sanderson, Contracts Manager at Gelder Group commented:

We are deeply thankful for the generosity shown by our team. This initiative is about more than just donations; it’s about community and compassion. We’re glad to help ensure that individuals and families can access essential hygiene products this holiday season.

LHP’s appeal is part of its commitment to “Listen, Act, and Learn,” with an emphasis on addressing needs highlighted by community conversations. Following the success of previous initiatives—such as providing pyjamas for children last year—this year’s drive focuses on supplying hygiene products, a simple yet impactful way to support families who might otherwise go without.

Both Gelder Group and LHP extend a heartfelt thank you to all those who contributed, either through monetary donations or by purchasing items directly. This initiative is a testament to the power of community spirit and a reminder that small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact.

Gelder Group is pleased to announce the addition of a new Ford Transit Welfare Van to its vehicle fleet, enhancing on-site welfare and safety provisions for maintenance personnel. This investment underlines Gelder Group’s commitment to providing employees with a comfortable, fully compliant mobile welfare unit, ensuring both health and safety (H&S) standards are met on all contracted projects.

The Ford Transit Welfare Van is specifically designed to support teams working in the field, particularly in remote or extended-duration locations, by offering comprehensive on-site facilities. The vehicle’s features include:

• Seating for up to four people with a table to facilitate breaks and discussions in a safe, comfortable environment
• Water boiler for hot drinks and refreshments
• Hot and cold running water to maintain high hygiene standards
• Microwave for convenient meal preparation
• Flushing chemical toilet with a handwashing basin that provides hot and cold water for effective sanitation
• Central heating to ensure warmth in colder months
• Dedicated drying room to protect and maintain personal protective equipment (PPE)

Designed to support health, safety, and welfare compliance, the vehicle’s onboard facilities run independently on battery power, allowing full functionality at sites without direct access to mains power. Alternatively, the unit can connect to a 230v mains supply when available.

“We are committed to supporting our team with facilities that not only enhance their comfort but also align with our high health and safety standards,” stated David Ternent, Health & Safety Manager. “This addition to our fleet reflects Gelder Group’s ongoing dedication to providing a safe and compliant environment for our staff, allowing them to perform their duties effectively.”

The Gelder Group is proud to announce the successful completion of the phased renovations of St. Mary’s Guildhall, one of Lincoln’s most cherished historic landmarks. The comprehensive restoration project, aimed at preserving the Guildhall’s architectural integrity while enhancing its functionality, has been completed on schedule, ensuring that this iconic building will continue to serve the community for generations to come.

St. Mary’s Guildhall, with its origins dating back to the 14th century, is a vital piece of Lincoln’s cultural heritage. Recognising the significance of the Guildhall, the Gelder Group undertook the renovation with a commitment to maintaining the historical character of the building while integrating modern amenities to meet current and future needs.

Vice Chairman of the Lincoln Civic Trust Limited, Tom Cave said this about the works “Being the long-term tenants of this unique, 12th Century building at the heart of Lincoln, the Trust welcome these much overdue repairs and are delighted with the work undertaken and with the care and skills employed.”

Gelder Group is delighted to announce that they have been awarded a new contract that has been jointly procured with East Lindsey District Council and Boston Borough Council. The contract encompasses responsive repairs and maintenance services for the councils’ buildings and infrastructure for four years.

Gelder Group has previously been a trusted partner of East Lindsey District Council for several years, providing high-quality construction and maintenance solutions. This new contract underscores the confidence and satisfaction the councils have in Gelder Group’s ability to consistently deliver exceptional service.

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with East Lindsey District Council and begin work with Boston Borough Council,” said Steve Gelder, CEO of Gelder Group. “This contract is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, as well as our commitment to excellence in every project we undertake.”

As part of the contract, Gelder Group will provide a range of responsive repairs and maintenance services to ensure the councils’ buildings remain safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. From minor repairs to major refurbishments, Gelder Group’s experienced team will work efficiently and effectively to meet the councils’ needs and exceed their expectations.

“We are confident that Gelder Group will continue to deliver outstanding results over the next four years,” said a spokesperson from East Lindsey District Council. “Their expertise, professionalism, and dedication to customer satisfaction make them the ideal partner for our responsive repairs and maintenance needs.”

Framework Housing Association provides a range of support for the homeless, including accommodation, health advice and employment skills. Every year it provides support accommodation for around 3,000 homeless people across Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Sheffield. A further 5,000 people are supported within the community.

Gelder Group was delighted to be able to give the Framework service users a small Christmas gift for all its Lincoln residents.

Gelder Group Director of Operations Louisa Sharpe said:

We are great admirers of the excellent work which Framework does and delighted to make this contribution towards helping their service users to have a merry Christmas.

Framework Head of Fundraising and Communications Claire Eden said:

Christmas can be a very bleak time for people who are homeless. At Framework our staff go out of their way to make it a special occasion for all our service users. Presents mean a lot to people who have very little and the support we receive from individuals and organisations in providing gifts for everyone ensures we can make Christmas special at our services. We really appreciate the seasonal goodwill of the thoughtful staff at the Gelder Group for so generously providing these treats.  Thank you on behalf of Framework for this kindness.

Expert restoration work will ensure that a much-photographed architectural gem in Lincoln’s High Street will continue to stand proud and welcome customers for many more years to come.

The Gelder Group is delighted to announce the successful completion of a special project, which has transformed the exterior of the highly popular Stokes High Bridge Café building, which dates back to 1540 and holds pride of place on the 12^th century bridge.

Gelder Group Chief Executive Officer Steve Gelder said:

We have given this distinctive property a comprehensive makeover. The work has included the installation of new rosemary tiles on the roof, giving the front and back façades a complete facelift, carrying out essential structural repairs and window enhancements. The café sits in a strategic location within the bustling city centre and is flanked by an extensively used passage known as The Glory Hole. This factor posed several challenges during the planning of this project. Ensuring the uninterrupted operation of the café and neighbouring businesses, whilst avoiding any disruptions to the six-week programme of work, were a priority. We are very pleased with the end result.

Work to transform the historic building was considered essential and the City of Lincoln Council made a substantial investment to help fund the project.

Stokes Tea & Coffee Managing Director Nick Peel said:

We are delighted that the roof has been repaired following years of leaks whenever it rained which has greatly impacted on trade and damaged the interiors.

The repainting of the façade was also desperately needed for this beautiful historic building which takes pride of place on Lincoln’s High Street. The exterior refurbishment coincides with a new efficient till system and revamp of the menu offering shoppers and tourists a gorgeous setting to enjoy breakfasts, lunches and afternoon teas.

Stokes has been in the High Bridge since 1937 and is extremely grateful to the City of Lincoln council and the Gelder Group for carrying out this project.

A City of Lincoln Council spokesperson said:

Gelder Group was appointed as main contractor to renew the rear (west facing) roof of 207 – 209 High St, Lincoln. This included external decorations to both front and rear elevations, as well as renewing pigeon control measures and external cleaning where necessary.

This work did not come without its challenges, firstly as the building is Grade 1 Listed, and has a central location in the heart of Lincoln High St. The works attracted attention from businesses and the public, so care with every single aspect of planning and the works was paramount.

It was estimated the works would take six-to-eight weeks, which meant constant communication with the business in the building was necessary – both to keep them informed of work and enable them to continue operating with as little inconvenience as possible. To do this, site meetings were held on a few occasions prior to commencement, incorporating City Council staff and Stokes’ café management and employees. This was led by Gelder’s contract manager, Paul Staines, who managed all communication and meetings, plus follow up information distribution perfectly.

Upon commencement of works and throughout, Paul maintained this communication and managed the site exceptionally well. Site managers were also on hand if needed, and kept all health and safety standards to the highest level. As the work progressed, regular meetings and calls took place to keep both the City Council and Stokes café informed.

It is fair to say there were challenges throughout the project, but we are happy to say these were managed and dealt with in a timely and professional manner by Paul and his staff and contractors.

Now that the works are finished, we are pleased to report that all were completed in good time, with minimal delays. The weather played its part, although again this was dealt with by Gelder’s professionally and with little to no negative impact.

The works have been completed to a high standard, to specification and the building is now watertight, with a fresh and clean finish and new bird-proofing. Overall, we are very happy with the works, the management of the project throughout and the finished product.

Gelder Group have again successfully won the contract to provide ‘Responsive Repairs and Maintenance’ work on behalf of the Council as well as securing the Pool and Maintenance contract for the East Coast including Skegness and Maplethorpe.

Joe Allmond commented:

We are delighted we’ve re-secured these contracts, we offer a response and consistent service which East Lindsey have recognised and rewarded us for.

Steve Gelder, CEO of Gelder Group seen here with Scott Ashdown from East Lindsey District Council signing the Contracts