Established in 1997, we set out with a philosophy to grow within the communities and societies in which we were based – to make a difference.
We wanted to reverse the usual delivery process, with a method of engagement that was not merely jobs orientated, but that endeavoured to meet people’s individual needs, offering solutions to personal and social problems and eliminating barriers to work.
We have since developed from a single site in North Solihull, to a network of more than 40 such Advancement Centres across the UK. We started out with a dedicated team of just 20 people – today we employ around 800 people.
We have assisted more than 105,000 long-term unemployed individuals into sustained employment, with up to 80% remaining with their initial employer and many more progressing to establish their own business. We have trained over 140,000 people in vocational skills, with more than 190,000 individuals benefiting from our professional information, advice and guidance service.
We have harnessed the imaginative delivery of a talented and dedicated workforce – from the vast industry experience and expertise of our board room, to the passion and enthusiasm of front line employees. It is a dynamic team that recognises its company as 2nd in the Sunday Times Top 100 Best Companies to Work For in the UK.
Yet throughout we have been true to our roots, becoming an integral part of local communities and unearthing the spark of brilliance in everyone we meet – whether recruiting clients as part of our workforce or supporting charities, groups and individuals who strive to make a better life for themselves and their neighbourhoods. The donation of over £250,000 to good causes, through our give as you earn scheme and other charitable donations, demonstrates the strength of our ethical values and our determination to always ‘give something back’.
We have a proven track record of consistently delivering our promises; through multiple contracts, multiple delivery sites and multiple funding agencies.
Take a trip around one of our state of the art Advancement Centres in the heart of a community in Newtown, Birmingham.