RWE npower has retained the prestigious CommunityMark from Business in the Community (BITC) for a further three years.

RWE npower first received the Community Mark in 2008 and was the first utility business to receive this prestigious award. The Community Mark is a national standard and the only one of its kind in the UK, it aims to recognise and highlight the positive impact business can have in the community, through long term commitment and investment and is endorsed by both the Government and the voluntary sector.

The rigorous testing process meant that BITC interviewed employees, community partners including National Energy Action, Macmillan Cancer Support, Community Service Volunteers, Football League Trust and the National Trust for their opinions about RWE npower’s community programme. All the feedback went to an independent panel who took on board their views whilst judging the entry.

For over 50 years, npower has worked with local communities. During this time, the company has built sustainable relationships which have been recognised by this Community Mark award, including:

• £52m was accessed by our Health Through Warmth scheme for vulnerable people since 2000.

• 14% of employees took part in volunteering during 2010

• 9,000 students experienced one of our power station guided tours

• 26,000 young people attended a No Power Hour session.

• npower has been a charity partner of Macmillan Cancer Support since 2004, this partnership is valued at £5 million.

Anita Longley, Director of Corporate Responsibility said; “RWE npower is proud to receive the prestigious CommunityMark for another three years. This award recognises the achievements, hard work and dedication of the people that work across our 60 sites. The company cares for the communities in which it operates and will continue to play an active and positive role in these areas. “

Stephen Howard, Chief Executive of Business in the Community said; “During a considerably tough year these organisations have proved that continuing to listen, engage and respond to the needs of their communities reinforces the fact that excellence in community investment not only has a positive and valuable impact on society, but translates to real business benefits.

“Many have made a long term commitment to the areas they operate in. They work collaboratively and fostered strong reciprocal partnerships to help improve the knowledge and skills in their local communities to ensure that there are people to support the local economy and business”.

Julia Cleverdon, Chair of RWE npower Corporate Responsibility Committee added: "This is fantastic recognition for everyone at RWE npower. I have heard from so many people that I have visited recently of the inspirational work in local communities. There's a great spirit of wanting to get ''stuck in" and make a positive impact. Achieving the Community Mark is a great accolade for RWE npower ".