www.bitc.org.uk

Ready for Work

Welfare to Work ConferenceRebecca Ford

Policy & Research Managerrebecca.ford@bitc.org.uk

www.bitc.org.uk/readyforwork

www.bitc.org.uk

What is Ready for Work?

A four stage programme with businesses engaged throughout...

RegistrationPre-

placement training

Work Placement

Post-placement

support

“Businesses must not underestimate the power of Ready for Work. The pleasure our people get from helping someone change their life is enormous and translates into building a motivated and loyal workforce.”

- Barry Quatermass, IMS Director, Carillion

www.bitc.org.uk

160 businesses engaged in

20 cities

Where are we?

www.bitc.org.uk

Who do we help?

Previous rough sleepers 30%Currently homeless - living in hostel 27%Ex-offenders 29%Care leavers 12%Previous substance dependence 17%Previous alcohol dependence 13%Ex-forces 5%

www.bitc.org.uk

Our impact

• 7,000+ people have been supported by the programme and over 3,000+ have gained employment since 2001.

• 40%+ of people who complete work placements enter employment.

• 27.3% of clients have gained a sustained job outcome compared to official Work Programme statistics of 14.7% for the equivalent Work Programme Group of clients (Early Access Group).

www.bitc.org.uk

Key features of the programme

• Specialist expertise for the client group

• Strong links with referral agencies

• Employers involved throughout all stages

• Understanding business drivers and needs

• Managing ‘risk’ for employers

• Educating employers about the client group

• Consistent programme across multiple locations

• Single point of contact nationally and robust account management

• Evaluation of client outcomes AND benefits to business

• Strong track record which helps us push boundaries

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And finally…

“My friends and family have noticed how much happier I have been since I got back to work. I now feel much more part of society, like I am making a difference to something.”

- Ready for Work client with unspent convictions