Triple nomination success for Trust
The Trust is celebrating a hat-trick of award nominations recognising its sector leading work to boost careers.
The BWC (Birmingham Women's and Children's) Aspire Academy, the one-stop employment and education support service for underrepresented communities, is nominated for two categories in the Nursing Times Workforce Awards.
The Universal Family Programme, which offers career support to care leavers aged 16 to 25, is spotlighted for Best Employer for Diversity and Inclusion.
Whilst the Mentoring Circle Programme, a collaboration with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) offering advice and support to job seekers, is recognised in the Best Social Responsibility Programme category.
Meanwhile James Stokes, who found employment at BWC through the Universal Family Programme, has been shortlisted for the Learner of the Year category in the HPMA: Excellence in People awards.
Lawrence Kelly, People Partnerships and Programmes Manager, said: “The BWC Aspire Academy is delighted to be recognised nationally in these coveted awards. The categories celebrate the Trust’s values, the programmes we deliver and the individuals that they impact.
“This recognition is down to the combined efforts of our BWC family who support the core team to deliver these initiatives that boast powerful and effective outcomes.”
Several initiatives are led by the BWC Aspire Academy which connects various communities and employers together, breaking down barriers to education and employment.
Nominee James, aged 24, who works as a Staff Engagement, Wellbeing and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Administrator, said: “I am extremely proud to have been shortlisted for this award. I see it as an amazing reflection of the hard work that has been put in throughout the last couple of years. To not only grow as a professional, but to be able to help those around me and especially the Universal Family Programme is something that I take immense pride in.
“I would like to thank my team for the nomination, as none of my work is possible without their outstanding support.”
James has been an ambassador for the government-led initiative, attending community events to speak to young people and visiting Downing Street to help promote the programme.
Lawrence, pictured above with the Aspire Academy team Nav Sharma and Femi Kuforiji, added: “The Universal Family Programme supports young people leaving the care system, helping to inform and shape meaningful career and training choices whilst respecting individual diversity and championing barriers often faced by what are some of the most vulnerable people within our communities.
“The success of this programme, now in its third year, is a combination of our colleagues and specialist partner networks who work closely to attract, support and nurture our future healthcare professionals.
“This is also the case with the Mentoring Circle Scheme which is a unique programme delivered into the very heart of our local communities. It offers DWP service users support through mentoring, access to vacancies, advice on conducting an effective job search and tips on interview techniques and filling in applications.
“We have seen how those attending the initiative are left inspired to take their next steps into the world of work.”
Both award ceremonies announcing the winners will be held in November.