Written by Stuart Dawks, Chief Executive Officer at PECT
As an environmental charity that’s been working in Peterborough and beyond for over 30 years, we’ve always known that the work we do matters. What’s changed over time is not just the scale of the challenge, but the urgency. The climate and nature crises are no longer abstract threats; they are here, affecting the places we call home and the people we care about.
That’s why, in 2024, we’ve taken a big step forward by publishing our first dedicated Impact Report. While we’ve reported annually for many years, this marks a shift in how we communicate and celebrate the difference we’re making.
We’re incredibly proud of the work our team, partners and communities have done together, and of the impact this work has had. From helping people reduce their energy bills and stay warm at home, to giving children a chance to explore nature and learn about climate change, to helping businesses take practical steps towards sustainability, it all adds up to real, lasting change.
But numbers on their own don’t tell the full story.
- Yes, we’ve supported over 2,500 households with energy advice over the last couple of years.
- Yes, we’ve planted 131,000 trees and counting as part of Forest for Peterborough.
- Yes, we’ve helped 350+ businesses become greener through Investors in the Environment.
These achievements are important, but they’re just the headline figures.
It’s the individual stories behind these numbers that show the true value of our work.
Stories of people who have gone from struggling to keep their homes warm, to feeling supported and empowered. There are children who now see themselves as the next generation of environmental leaders. We’ve seen community groups who have turned unused patches of land into vibrant, nature-rich spaces. Stories of businesses taking action not because they have to, but because they want to be part of something bigger.
This impact isn’t just a result of what we do—it’s about how we do it. It’s the relationships we build, the trust we foster, and the space we create for people to take positive action. Our report reflects that ethos: it’s more than a summary of achievements. It’s a reflection of the community-led, collaborative approach that’s at the heart of PECT.
It also demonstrates our commitment to transparency and accountability. We know that good governance matters. We want those who support us, whether that’s funders, partners, volunteers or residents, to feel confident that we’re using our resources well and delivering real value. That’s why, alongside our impact, we’ve clearly reported our finances, and the risks and opportunities we’re facing as an organisation.
We also know that more needs to be done.
The challenges we face are evolving and we must evolve with them. From biodiversity loss and fuel poverty to the transition to a circular economy, we’re ready to step up and do more. We want to continue growing our impact, reaching more people, supporting more communities, and working with more partners to make meaningful change.
Our work in 2024 builds on the legacy of three decades of action. And while the past has shaped us, it’s the future that motivates us.
This report is both a celebration of what we’ve achieved and a call to action. We invite you to read it, reflect on it, and ask yourself: how can I get involved?