Friday update

I’m sure like me, you were all eagerly awaiting news of what the end of the second lockdown would mean for us all, with anticipation of a degree of normality being restored and as such I would imagine the announcement earlier this week outlining our Tier 3 status alongside the rest of Kent, which leaves us in circumstances not too dissimilar to the past few weeks, has left you feeling rather deflated and starting to feel the strain of the ongoing pandemic.

The Government’s decision relating to the tiered system has been taken based on recommendations by government scientists and experts taking into account infection rates, rates of virus increase and the overall number of cases per 100,000 people, as well as the resulting pressure on NHS resources and future capacity, and with elevated numbers in both Swale and Thanet it comes as no surprise that we are now under the most stringent of measures. A reminder of what the Tier 3 restrictions mean for us all are outlined in the attached guidance issued by the NHS as a point of reference for you all, for ongoing clarity.

Even as our patience wears a little thin we must continue to trust that government action is carefully considered and implemented with the very best intent, and I feel the recent statement below issued by Kent County Council Leader Roger Gough sums up countywide frustrations whilst offering us some assurance that restrictions will reduce as soon as feasibly possible for our area:

“We appreciate that residents and businesses across the county will be extremely concerned and some areas may feel the Government decision is unfair. It is our priority now to work with everyone to move out of tier 3 as quickly as possible. We continue to work tirelessly to reduce the rate of transmission across Kent, focusing on the most affected areas with extra testing capacity and engaging local communities to ensure that we all comply with restrictions”

Lets try to remain optimistic for a better outcome upon review of the guidelines on 16th December, and until then we must push forwards as a business for the remaining few weeks of the year. During this time we will endeavour to deliver some Christmas cheer to you all to boost morale, just sadly not in the usual manner that we would have liked given that our priority, first and foremost, is to keep you all as safe as possible and reduce any further risk of infection.

Moving on to news of a far more positive nature I am delighted to update you on the outcome of our three national awards nominations this week. First up was the virtual presentation of the National RICS Social Impact Awards on Tuesday in which the Curious Brewery was shortlisted within the commercial category following our win earlier this year at the South East regionals. Whilst the coveted accolade was not ours this time around, we mustn’t overlook the significant achievement in reaching the national finals amongst a stellar line up of highly prestigious and particularly sizeable schemes from across the UK, which in itself is a success. Nonetheless, we should take great pride in acknowledging we are responsible for delivering the BEST commercial development in the South East this year, and reflect upon the incredible efforts by all the team to bring this challenging project to fruition. Well done to all involved.

Following the RICS awards we looked forward with anticipation to yesterday’s Construction Marketing Awards which is the only national awards scheme dedicated to recognising marketing excellence within the built environment. Jenner were shortlisted in two categories for ‘Best Contractor Marketing Campaign’ and ‘Best Branding and Positioning’ and I am absolutely delighted that not only were we highly commended within our first entry cited as “exceptionally creative, well-researched and fabulously cost-effective” we were crowned outright winners for the ‘Best Branding & Positioning’ award with the judges stating “this was an extremely professional rebrand. Extensive audience research ensured the initiative was insight-led. The outcome is a modern, professional and visually impactful brand!” This is a remarkable achievement that once again keeps the Jenner brand prominent and highly-regarded at national level. Congratulations must go to both Ella and Aimee for their exceptional efforts in coordinating this branding change and implementing it so successfully throughout all facets of the business.

Lastly, the week could not go by without mention of a half century milestone within the team as Director Andy Ralph celebrated his 50th birthday on Wednesday and was treated to a day spent with his co-Directors at our monthly board meeting, with thankfully some cake too! Happy Birthday Andy and we do hope you get the opportunity to celebrate properly this weekend.

I think this would be the optimal place to draw this weeks update to a close, other than of course to wish you all a restful and enjoyable weekend as we head into the advent period next week.