For many businesses, corporate social responsibility is something written in a policy document. For Exeter-based Atlantes Landscapes, it is something the team puts into practice.
Denise Gomes Bentley (left) with the Atlantes Landscapes Grounds Maintenance Team (Aaron, Adam, Stewart and Michael) at YMCA’s Cove House in Paignton where they planted a hedge.
Recently, members of the company’s grounds maintenance team travelled to Paignton to volunteer their time and professional skills at Cove House, a new supported housing project developed by YMCA Exeter.
Their task was simple but meaningful – planting a new hedge around the property to help create a welcoming outdoor environment for the young people who will soon call the building home.
By the end of the day, 45 Griselinea hedge plants had been planted around the site, helping shape the outdoor space that will form part of the residents’ daily environment. The plants were supplied by Quercus Nursery, which supported the project by arranging free delivery so the landscaping work could take place.
For Atlantes Landscapes, the volunteer day was about much more than planting a hedge. According to Strategy Director, Denise Gomes Bentley, the initiative reflects a core value embedded within the company’s culture. “Our heart is to support our community,” she explained. “By bringing the team here, we reinforce this value because we are helping people who are more vulnerable. Supporting YMCA is a way for us to give a positive example to our team, to our clients and to society in general.”
The company regularly encourages team members to participate in community projects, recognising that businesses have a role to play in strengthening the communities around them. The volunteer team on site included Senior Team Leader Stewart, trainee team leader Aaron, senior operative Michael and operative Adam.
“It’s great when the work we do has a direct positive impact,” Stewart said. “We work with plants and landscapes every day, but when it’s part of a project that supports people in the community, it adds another level of meaning to the job.”
The volunteer day also gave the Atlantes team an opportunity to learn more about the work of YMCA Exeter and the challenges facing young people across the region. Lydia Brown, Torbay Housing Manager and Warden for YMCA, explained that the organisation is responding to a growing need for supported accommodation in the area.
“YMCAs Paignton project is designed to meet a very real need in Torbay, where in 2023 we saw a 180% increase in 18–25-year-olds at high risk of homelessness,” she said. “By developing supported accommodation in Paignton, we’re creating a pathway that gives young people safety, structure and the chance to take positive steps forward.”
The project is centred around Cove House on Cliff Road in Paignton – a property with impressive views across the bay that will soon provide accommodation and support for young adults who need stability as they move towards independence.
During the visit, YMCA staff welcomed the Atlantes team and provided a tour of the building, explaining how the project will help residents build confidence, develop life skills and create opportunities for the future. Simon Poyner from YMCA South Devon helped guide the visitors around the property, describing the vision for the house and the role it will play in supporting young people in Torbay.
For Denise, projects like this demonstrate how businesses and charities can work together to make a positive difference. “Community engagement is an important responsibility for us as a business,” she said. “When our team can use their skills to support projects like this, it strengthens both the community and the culture within our company.”
The day also highlighted the value of partnerships between organisations. Alongside YMCA Exeter and Atlantes Landscapes, Quercus Nursery played an important role by supporting the project with free the delivery of the plants.
While the landscaping work itself took just a day, the results will be visible for years to come as the hedge grows and becomes part of the environment surrounding the home. More importantly, the project reflects the kind of collaboration that can make community initiatives successful – bringing together charities, businesses and volunteers around a shared goal.
For Atlantes Landscapes, the volunteer day is just one example of how the company seeks to translate its values into practical action. And as the business continues to grow across Devon, the leadership team says maintaining that commitment to community engagement will remain a central part of the company’s identity.
See interview with Denise Gomes Bentley which explores Atlantes Landscape’s approach to leadership, values and growth, as well as the role that purpose-driven business can play in shaping stronger local communities.
Visit the Atlantes Landscapes website for more information about this community oriented company and the various services it provides to home owners as well as to commercial clients.
Devon Business
We support local entrepreneurship and help companies get noticed in the Southwest of England. Our Devon Business Directory lists local service providers and highlights businesspeople across the region. We blog about businesses that are making a difference, recognising business leaders and sharing success stories. We also look at marketplace trends and ways to increase productivity.
