No parent expects their child’s first moments to be spent in an incubator, surrounded by machines and medical teams. But for many families, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) becomes a vital part of their story, offering not just care, but hope and connection during an incredibly challenging time.

At Shenton Group, we believe in the power of community and the importance of supporting causes that have a meaningful impact. That’s why, this quarter, we’re proud to support Ickle Pickles, a charity that provides life-saving equipment and support to neonatal units across the UK.

For one of our own team members, this support became deeply personal.

Kirsty’s Story: Finding Support When It Was Needed Most

In November 2023, our CHP Coordinator, Kirsty, welcomed her son, Beauden-Bleu, into the world six weeks early. His early arrival meant an unexpected stay in the NICU at Winchester Hospital, a time filled with uncertainty, new routines, and many emotions.

During those early days, Ickle Pickles played a crucial role in making the experience just a little easier.

“Ickle Pickles means so much to me,” Kirsty explains. “When Beauden-Bleu was born prematurely, we didn’t know what to expect. But the support we received helped us through a really difficult time. It made all the difference.”

From practical resources to emotional support, Ickle Pickles contributed to many moments that brought comfort:

• Thoughtful touches, like hand-knitted hats and blankets, made the environment feel warmer and more personal. One particularly meaningful moment came when a nurse chose a tartan blanket for Beauden-Bleu, honouring Kirsty’s Scottish heritage.
  
• A dedicated family space, equipped with sofas, books, toys, and a kitchen, gave parents like Kirsty a chance to take a break and gather their strength.
  
• Ongoing connection through monthly coffee mornings and an online community helped Kirsty stay supported even after bringing Beauden-Bleu home.
  

Giving Back Through Our Charity of the Quarter

Each quarter, Shenton Group supports a different charity nominated by our team. This approach helps us give back in a meaningful way, and when one of our colleagues has a personal connection to a cause, it becomes even more impactful.

To support Ickle Pickles, our team has taken part in a number of fundraising activities, including:

• Pancake Day – where staff donated for a sweet treat, with all proceeds going to the charity.
  
• Dress-Down Fridays – a small but consistent way our team contributes weekly, swapping uniforms for casual wear and donating £1 each time.
  

These lighthearted efforts may seem small individually, but together, help fund critical equipment for neonatal units like the one that cared for Beauden-Bleu. But more than that, they raise awareness of a journey many families don’t expect to take, until they do.

How You Can Get Involved

If Kirsty’s story resonated with you, here are a few ways to support Ickle Pickles and families in neonatal care:

• Make a donation to help fund essential neonatal equipment.
  
• Take part in a fundraiser, or host your own!
  
• Volunteer your skills, whether that’s knitting hats or helping at local events.
  

To learn more or get involved, visit: icklepickles.org/hospital/winchester-hospital

A Shared Commitment

At Shenton Group, our culture of giving back is shaped by the people who make up our team. Kirsty’s experience is a powerful reminder of why we do what we do, because behind every charity we support, real lives are being touched.

We’re proud to stand with Ickle Pickles and all the families they support. Together, we can help give the tiniest fighters the strongest possible start.

Founded on strong family values and a commitment to excellence, Shenton Group has grown from humble beginnings into an industry leader in continuous power solutions. What makes us truly unique, however, is the heart of our company: the generations of family members who have worked, and continue to work, under one roof.

Photo taken above 1993: Derek Barry – Chief Technical Officer (Red overalls) Richard Meek – Founder (4th in from the right) and Roland Taylor – Technical Support Engineer (Far right)

From the Beginning: A Legacy of Expertise

The Shenton Group story began in 1982 when Richard Meek founded Outback Energy, driven by a vision to deliver reliable power generation solutions. Just two years later, the Scorpion Power Systems brand was launched and quickly earned a strong reputation for providing high-quality generator systems across the UK. From the outset, Richard was supported by Roland Taylor, a childhood friend, who has been a cornerstone of the company for over 33 years, contributing his expertise to the technical department.

Another key figure is Derek Barry, our Chief Technical Officer, who joined straight out of school over 35 years ago. Derek’s leadership has been instrumental in driving innovative problem-solving, maintaining quality, and ensuring the consistency that defines our brand. Today, Richard’s sons—Curtis Meek (CEO), Jody Meek (COO), and Darren Meek (Sales Manager)—lead the business, ensuring that Shenton Group continues to uphold its founding values.   

Click here to see the Shenton Group timeline

Spotlight on Longevity and Expertise

Our success is built on the dedication of our incredible team. Lorraine John, with 23 years of service, exemplifies this commitment. Beginning her career at Merlin Power Management, a division focused on maintenance and support, Lorraine now serves as Operations Manager – Generator & UPS, ensuring seamless service delivery and upholding the high standards synonymous with the Shenton Group name.

Pioneering Sustainability

Committed to innovation and investment in our people, we recently launched the Tech Hub, an in-house training facility for engineers, and a space to collaboratively develop efficient and resilient technologies. By developing the knowledge and skillsets of our people we address today’s challenges while paving the way for tomorrow’s opportunities and the future generations that will benefit from our shared passion and teamwork.

A Family-Oriented Culture Driving Success

What sets Shenton Group apart is our people-focused culture. The Meek family’s values of care and commitment extend to every aspect of the business. Roy Taylor, Roland’s son, has been with us for 15 years and was recently promoted to Sales Manager, it is so rewarding to see talented individuals progress and take on new challenges.

Why Generators Matter: A Client Success Story

Our generators are a crucial line of defence against crises, ensuring that UK operations continue seamlessly during unexpected power outages.

One client shared:

Shenton Group supplied and installed standby generators across a number of our sites and have been responsible for maintenance and refuelling. The service received has been excellent, both in terms of planned works and emergency repairs. The engineers are reliable and effective, and the team works seamlessly with other contractors.

Click here to read case studies

Whether supporting hospitals, data centres, or commercial facilities across the UK, our solutions ensure uninterrupted operations.

Our Services: Specialist Generator and UPS Solutions

Shenton Group offers a full suite of generator-related services tailored for UK businesses and organisations, including:

• Bespoke Generator Systems: Custom solutions for critical industries such as healthcare, data centres, and manufacturing. Our expertise ensures businesses always have the power they need, when they need it most.
• Backup Generators and UPS: Reliable standby solutions to keep businesses operational during power outages.
• Generator Installation: Tailored generator solutions, from consultation to commissioning.
• Generator Hire: Flexible short- or long-term generator hire options for businesses across the UK
• Generator Maintenance and Repairs: Regular servicing and 24/7 emergency repairs to keep systems running at peak performance.
• Load Testing and Fuel Polishing: Services to optimise generator efficiency and reliability.
• Bespoke Generator Systems: Custom solutions for critical industries such as healthcare, data centres, and manufacturing. Our expertise ensures businesses always have the power they need, when they need it most.
  

The Future of Power Generation at Shenton Group

What began as a father’s dream has grown into a thriving business driven by a passion for reliable power. Our leadership team, including experts like Derek Barry (CTO), Craig Lewendon (CFO), and Tara Lawson (CPO), is committed to advancing Shenton Group while staying true to our roots. As we celebrate over 40 years of success, we remain focused on delivering tailored power solutions that keep our clients’ businesses and organisations across the UK thriving.

📌 Learn more about our generator services: https://www.shentongroup.co.uk/products/

📌 Speak to a generator specialist today: +44 (0) 344 888 444 5

Discover why businesses across the UK trust Shenton Group to power their operations, no matter what.

Embracing Change in Workplace Safety

Times are changing, and while safety measures have always been crucial, there is a growing recognition of the importance of prioritising health alongside safety. Historically, safety took the forefront, focusing on preventing immediate harm or incidents. However, it’s not just about avoiding visible injuries; it’s about safeguarding our long-term health. For example, acknowledging health risks such as hearing loss from working in loud environments. For those who work in these types of settings, it was almost the norm to accept that losing your hearing comes with the nature of the job. However, there is now an increased focus on creating safer, healthier workplaces that prioritise our health both now and in the future.

Holistic Approaches to Worker Safety and Health

This shift reflects a broader trend toward holistic approaches to worker safety and health. It’s about integrating health considerations into our risk assessments and safety protocols.

For example, in an engineering setting, a holistic approach might involve implementing comprehensive noise reduction strategies in addition to providing personal protective equipment like earplugs. This could include opting for quieter machinery, designing workspaces to minimise noise production, and creating designated quiet zones for breaks. By addressing the root causes of noise pollution, rather than just the symptoms, this approach helps to safeguard workers’ hearing and overall well-being, ensuring a healthier and safer working environment.

Long-term Health Risks

Long-term health risks in the workplace can significantly impact employees’ well-being, encompassing a wide range of issues from chronic diseases to mental health disorders. Prolonged exposure to loud noise in industrial settings can lead to permanent hearing loss, while repetitive motion tasks in office environments can cause musculoskeletal disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome. Inhaling harmful chemicals or wood dust particles in manufacturing can result in respiratory diseases or cancer, and constant stress in high-pressure jobs can lead to cardiovascular problems and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

Mitigating these risks involves a comprehensive approach that includes regular health screenings, ergonomic assessments, providing protective equipment, and implementing effective ventilation systems. With an increased focus on mental health, more employers promote a healthy work-life balance, with mental health support becoming increasingly available. By addressing these areas, organisations can protect their employees’ health and enhance overall productivity and job satisfaction.

Safety & Health Management

Health Re-focus

Health and Safety Executives (HSEs) are dedicated to prioritising employee welfare. They assist businesses in enforcing standards to prevent workplace hazards and promote best practices that support both physical and mental health, in line with guidelines set by global committees. Recently, there has been a clear shift toward focusing on long-term health.

ISO 45001 Compliance: Taking the Next Step in Workplace Safety and Health

For businesses looking to take the next step in prioritising health and safety, ISO 45001 compliance offers a clear and effective pathway. ISO 45001 is an international standard for occupational health and safety management systems that encourages a comprehensive approach to creating safer workplaces. By adhering to this standard, organisations can systematically identify and mitigate risks while promoting overall worker well-being.

To comply with ISO 45001, companies must implement systematic processes to manage both safety and health risks. This involves regular risk assessments, thorough employee training, and continuous improvement processes that ensure preventive measures are ingrained in everyday operations. Our engineers undergo random audits to ensure we meet these requirements.

Businesses that adopt ISO 45001 not only enhance the safety and health of their workforce but also demonstrate a strong commitment to employee well-being. This compliance can lead to improved morale, increased productivity, and a better overall work environment. Moreover, it positions companies as leaders in workplace safety and health, showcasing their dedication to creating a happier, healthier future for their employees.

Summary

The evolving approach to workplace safety recognises the importance of prioritising health alongside traditional safety measures. By adopting holistic approaches, addressing long-term health risks, and adhering to standards like ISO 45001, organisations can create safer, healthier, and more productive work environments. This shift towards prioritising health reflects a broader commitment to ensuring the well-being of employees, both now and in the future.