Delivering ESG in Property Management

Empty commercial buildings shouldn’t go to waste. We help the property industry turn unused spaces into transformative charity projects that make a real difference.

Since 1997, The Starting Out Charity has been a trusted partner to property industry leaders across the UK. We’ve worked alongside landlords, investors, and local authorities to reimagine how vacant commercial spaces can serve society.

We help property owners reduce business rates and drive positive change by transforming vacant commercial property into high-impact, community-driven spaces.

With over 27 years of experience, our award-winning charity projects have delivered ESG inspired property management solutions that protect assets, reduce costs, and generate real-world social value.

Ethical Property Management with Proven ESG Impact

Our tried and tested initiatives help property owners save on commercial rates and ensure their properties are well-maintained and ready to return when needed. Through our innovative, ESG-driven approach to commercial property management, we transform empty offices, warehouses, and high-street units into meaningful community initiatives that benefit everyone; from local residents to property stakeholders.
Our solutions are rooted in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, helping commercial property owners:

• Minimise holding costs through substantial business rate relief
• Ensure their assets are secured, cared for, and returned when needed
• Meet ESG and CSR goals through socially responsible meanwhile space use
• Build trust with communities, councils, and the wider public

Through our dynamic volunteering initiatives and our network of respected charity partners, we’ve earned numerous prestigious awards, received praise from Prime Ministers, and launched some of the UK’s most impactful charity initiatives.

Unlocking Social Value from Empty Commercial Property

Do you have an empty commercial property that’s costing you more than you’d like in business rates?

Whether you manage a single unit or a portfolio of assets, we offer a fully managed tailored solution for property owners seeking to improve ESG outcomes, reduce vacant property liabilities, and create measurable social impact.

We’re here to assist whether you’re awaiting planning permission or between tenants.

• Award-Winning Impact

With over 27 years of experience, our charity initiatives are tried, tested, and trusted by industry leaders. We’ve repurposed hundreds of commercial properties to serve vital community needs from youth spaces and shelters to learning hubs and pop-up support centres.

• Safeguarded & Returned

We ensure your property is protected, well-maintained, and returned in excellent condition whenever required. Our process is ideal for large office blocks, warehouses, or smaller premises — whether pristine or in need of care.

• Significant Savings

By enabling charitable use of your property, we help you access substantial business rates savings, reduce liability, and unlock ESG value from assets that would otherwise sit empty.

• Flexible, Tailored Support

We cater to extremely large and small properties.
Whether it’s a short-term gap between tenants or longer-term regeneration, we work to your timeline with our team handling all logistics, operations, and compliance.

• Enhance Your ESG Profile

Enhance CSR with staff participation in meaningful projects.Our work contributes directly to environmental, social, and governance goals with many of our partners engaging their workforce in volunteering and community outreach.

• Positive PR

Strengthen relationships with councils and communities while gaining positive media coverage.