The importance of community and why we need to address homelessness

Jason Walsh is CEO of CPP Group and a member of the Leeds Community Foundation’s 100 Club, a patronage scheme for individuals who are motivated to make a difference in Leeds. Here, he discusses what he loves about the city of Leeds and why he is involved in the foundation.

What is your favourite thing about Leeds?

It’s got all the benefits of a big city (shops, office locations, great public transport links, bars and restaurants) all within walking distance of each other.

What’s your ideal day out in Leeds?

It’s my ideal work day…..cycle or run into work down the canal path from Horsforth, lunch time spent with a sandwich in a deck chair in St Paul’s Square, a trip to the Trinity Centre for some shopping after work or to meet my wife and kids to go to the Everyman Cinema and then for a meal out somewhere in the city.

What is the best lesson you have learned in business?

Treat people as equals, with dignity, transparency and respect.

What single thing do you think could help the city?

Leeds United getting promoted to the Premier League!

What inspired you to join the 100 Club?

Being part of a community and contributing to it from a business perspective is very important.

What community issues are important to you?

Addressing the homeless problem, not for the sake of how it makes the city look, but for the sake of the people who are forced to live on the streets. To help them get back on their feet, back into the community and back feeling positive and contributing to the local community.