We’re more than just a housing provider. We’re here to support our communities. And one way we do this is by helping people into employment. Or into a better job. Or with training, volunteering, apprenticeships or starting their own business.
We’ve created new, innovative pathways into training, employment and career opportunities for our customers and those who live in our communities through partnerships with local employers. They’re called Abri Work Academies (AWA).
What is an Abri Work Academy?
Our AWAs were developed as a flexible model, working in partnership with employers across a range of sectors including sales, customers service, care, construction, and event management. They use a combination of distance learning, live face-to-face training, and mock interviews to make sure that our customers secure employment opportunities and employers have access to people who have the skills and values that they require.
And employers are so pleased with what we offer (check out SCiA’s feedback here), that they’re coming back for more.
In 2021 we’ve run 13 AWAs across our geography, engaging 163 customers. And we’ve delivered unique training to 117 people, supported 72 people into employment with our employer partners, 17 into other jobs, and five into volunteering. It’s making a difference (read Jake’s story here).
Working in partnership
So far, we’ve already got AWAs planned in 2022 with Legoland, Ikea, Holiday Inn, and Oxford House, to name a few.
And our AWAs are breaking down barriers to equal opportunities too. For the Victorious Festival and inaugural We Shine Festival AWAs, we were able to broaden our customer base to include groups who are often marginalised including refuges, asylum seekers, care leavers, those with (dis)abilities and those who have been long term unemployed.
Within this group we broadened our engagement to help support 15 North African war refugees (predominantly from the Sudan), who had made it to the UK as unaccompanied minors and are now supported by Portsmouth City Council’s social work and street support teams.
As well as finding work or better jobs, we’ve seen customers find an increased sense of purpose, higher aspirations, self-worth and confidence. It also has the financial benefits for our customers, helping the local economy and means customers are more likely to be able to pay their rent and reduce any arrears they may have.
So far, the AWAs have generated £587,766 in social value for employment secured and volunteering, and £183,339 in unique training. And we’re yet to calculate the value of the increased confidence. (If you’ve not heard of social value before, take a look at what it means in our community impact assessment here).
Ultimately, we believe in creating thriving communities and improving people’s life chances. The AWAs are not only helping our customers and communities into employment or training, it’s often providing the vital first step of self-confidence to make lasting change and empower lives.