Midcounties Co-operative supports over 50 individuals through inclusive employment initiatives
The Midcounties Co-operative has supported more than 50 individuals over the last 12 months through its continued focus on employability support.
The retailer’s employability initiatives include several regional partnerships, including The Fairer Futures Programme in partnership with Birmingham social enterprise, Miss Macaroon, and the Fairer Access to Work scheme, a collaboration with charity Aspire Oxfordshire.
The Fairer Futures Programme supports young adults aged 30 and under, including those with disabilities, lone parents, individuals who are neurodiverse, have mental health issues or learning differences, or have been in touch with the criminal justice system.
Meanwhile, Fairer Access to Work helps people facing adverse conditions such as homelessness, poverty, or disadvantage, including refugees in the process of being resettled.
Never Miss a Retail Update!The Fairer Futures Programme has supported more than 30 local people over the last year, with over 25 moving into permanent employment, while over 20 people have embarked on the Fairer Access to Work scheme with 12 securing employment as a direct result.
Tarra Simmons, head of community and democratic engagement at The Midcounties Co-operative, said: “At The Midcounties Co-operative, everything we do is guided by our members and our commitment to building a fairer, ethical and more sustainable future.
“These employability programmes are a powerful expression of that purpose in action, helping to remove barriers, restore confidence, and open doors for people who are often overlooked or need more of a helping hand.
“By working in partnership with like-minded organisations, we can ensure that our impact for the communities we serve is real, lasting and rooted in the values we share.”
Hear Tarra Simmons of The Midcounties Co-operative and Rosie Ginday of Miss Macaroon speak at The Retail Bulletin’s Retail HR Central Conference in Birmingham on 14 May. Find out more and secure free places here