The Group’s primary focus at the current time is to ensure continuity of service as far as possible, with the well-being of our customers and the health and safety of our colleagues of utmost importance. Working practices are evolving to minimise the spread of the virus. The Group recognises that it can play a significant role in supporting the national effort in navigating through the emerging situation. Mears is proud of doing the right thing in communities and where the workforce is not engaged in essential maintenance, they may be available to provide other services to local communities.
Mears is a key strategic partner to both Central and Local Government. A proportion of the Group’s housing activities and its remaining care activities are regarded by Central Government as essential services. In addition, we provide emergency maintenance services to our housing clients and need to ensure that those services continue to be delivered. We are obviously working closely with our public sector clients to ensure the right priorities are set and that any risks are well managed.
The response to the pandemic from our colleagues has been outstanding, and we recognise that everyone's efforts remain to be focussed on those with the greatest need at this challenging time.
David Miles, Chief Executive Officer of the Group, commented:
"The rapidly evolving public health emergency created by Covid-19 will place increased demands on the Group's services, its people and its finances. We are taking all the necessary steps to overcome these challenges. I am confident that our staff will rise to the challenge of effective delivery in these difficult circumstances and that the Group will come through well. I thank all our stakeholders for their forbearance and their support in these uniquely challenging times.
The Group is well placed to battle through these short-term challenges. Our long-term goal continues to be delivering controlled growth, improved profitability and reduced indebtedness."
While there is uncertainty for everyone at this challenging time, Mears’ commitment to be a secure, responsible and innovative business is even more fitting to the current situation and we will continue to keep all our stakeholders updated with developments.
