A Year That Changed The Pace…
Over the past 18 months, Bell hasn’t just made progress, we’ve gained real momentum. Through national awards, new accreditation’s and standout achievements, we’ve shown what’s possible when experience, ambition and people all pull in the same direction.
From industry‑leading apprenticeships and fire safety innovation to wellbeing and workforce development, it’s been a year of setting new standards and proving our way of working delivers real impact.
One of the defining moments was Bell’s first‑ever company conference. For the first time, colleagues from across the UK came together to celebrate what we’ve achieved, share ideas and reconnect with our purpose. The energy in the room was unmistakable and it carried through everything that followed.
Being named Retrofit Contractor of the Year recognised the work we’re doing to deliver retrofit responsibly, technically and with the future firmly in mind. Winning Best Fire Safety Innovation at the Housing Innovation Awards further underlined our growing leadership in safety, compliance and modern building management.
Safety, in all its forms, remained a constant focus. Achieving BSA Certified status strengthened our commitment to doing things properly and operating to the highest professional standards. That commitment was echoed across the business, with RoSPA Gold Awards for Health & Safety and Fleet Safety, and a huge achievement from our South West team – 12 months without a RIDDOR incident!
But this year wasn’t only about performance and process. It was about people.
Our focus on learning and development was recognised nationally when Bell was named one of the Sunday Times Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers, ranking #44. That pride was amplified by the success of Kirsten Jackson, who became the UK’s top Painting & Decorating apprentice after winning SkillBuild, a brilliant achievement and a glimpse of the future of our trade.
Our wider commitment to “earn and learn” pathways was solidified when we were re-awarded the Platinum Award from The 5% Club, placing Bell among organisations that go further in developing talent at every stage. Alongside this, our Training and Skills Coordinator, Darren Pulfrey, qualified as Bell’s first in‑house Mental Health First Aider – a meaningful step in strengthening support and wellbeing across the business.
Culture continued to shine through everything we do. Being named one of the World’s Happiest Workplaces reflected the environment our teams help build every day. That sense of purpose was also recognised beyond Bell, with Craig Bell and Kirsty Docherty named on the Purpose Power List 2025, celebrating leaders driving change with integrity and intent.
National recognition rounded off the year, with Bell shortlisted as Employer of the Year at the British Business Awards, placing us among some of the UK’s most progressive employers.
Taken together, these achievements tell a simple story. Bell is moving forward, with confidence, clarity and purpose. From fire safety and retrofit to skills, wellbeing and workplace culture, we’re showing what can be achieved when people are supported, standards are high and values guide decisions.
This isn’t just a snapshot of a strong year, it’s a sign of where Bell is heading next.
Bell isn’t just growing.
We’re leading.
