Social value isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a catalyst for real, lasting change.
For Havering resident Niamh Gibbs, a paid work experience placement through the 12 Estates joint venture partnership between Havering Council and Wates Residential opened the door to a career she never imagined possible.
Niamhs’s journey is a powerful example of how social value initiatives—like those supported by the joint venture partnership with and creative agency Mediorite—can help unlock potential, build confidence, and create lasting change.
Niamh started with Mediorite on the video updates for the New Green and Waterloo and Queen Street regeneration schemes, and then offered her insight and expertise to help care-experienced youngsters also benefit from paid-for work experience as part of the Platinum Jubilee celebration videos.
Niamh learned the importance of communication and attention to detail—skills that proved invaluable when she joined the BBC’s award-winning show Race Across the World team, as an Accounts Assistant.
Now, she works in a fast-paced production environment, handling everything from reimbursements to international payments, ensuring the show runs smoothly behind the scenes.
Niamh’s role involves managing financial administration across all stages of production, ensuring crews have the resources they need to bring the show to life.
Her story is a testament to the wider benefits of investing in people and communities.
“My work experience gave me the confidence to network, and put myself out there.
"Working with Mediorite taught me how important communication and attention to detail are on set, which has been very beneficial to working on Race, where we are often competing with time differences and foreign currencies.
“It’s quite cool to think I started out submitting my first invoice for the paid for work experience on the New Green development with no idea what to put on it and now I’m processing high-value international payments and spotting errors before they happen!
“Working alongside other creative people who want to make ambitious things happen is a special sort of magic.
"Especially when everyone pulls together to overcome hurdles or solve a problem.”
Councillor Ray Morgon, Leader of Havering Council, said:
“Social value isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a catalyst for real, lasting change.
“For Niamh, a paid work experience placement through our 12 Estates joint venture helped to open the door to a career she never imagined possible.
“And as we mark our seventh anniversary of the joint venture partnership with Wates Residential this year, her story is a shining example of how investing in people through meaningful opportunities can lead to personal growth, professional success, and a stronger, more connected and representative creative industry.”