GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) became one of the first companies to be awarded the new CommunityMark by the UK organisation Business in the Community (BITC). GSK was assessed alongside some the UK's largest retailers, banks, and professional services firms and following a rigorous selection and review process becomes the only manufacturing company to receive the award.

The CommunityMark is BITC's newest initiative and sets a standard that recognises the best company's with regard to their investment in the community. It is the only award of its kind in the UK and is endorsed by the Government and voluntary sector leaders.

The Mark has been given to GSK for work at a local and national level in the UK as well as larger international programmes. GSK can use the CommunityMark for three years and then apply for it to be renewed.

Andrew Witty chief executive of GlaxoSmithKline said: "Improving the lives of patients in communities around the world is at the heart of our work at GSK. The combined efforts of developing innovative medicines and vaccines alongside our work with communities can have a genuine impact on society.

"The rigorous assessment process employed by BITC makes the recognition of our long term commitment to community investment all the more significant. We are proud to have been awarded the CommunityMark."

The CommunityMark assessment process included demonstrating to the review panel that GSK has a long-term, high-level commitment to community investment. Specific examples include GSK's flagship programmes for Lymphatic Filariasis, Positive Action for HIV/AIDS and PHASE, the hygiene education programme for children. The panel also interviewed many of our community partners and employee volunteers.

The full list of 21 CommunityMark companies will be announced publicly this evening at the BITC Gala Awards.