Big Issue Recruit received £84,400 from the npower Business Solutions (nBS) Foundation to fund two dedicated job coaches in Birmingham and the West Midlands. These roles will provide tailored, one-to-one support to those facing considerable life challenges, helping them secure long-term employment while also addressing critical local workforce needs.
Overcoming structural inequality
Mainstream employment services frequently struggle to reach these individuals. Without specialised intervention, those furthest from the labour market - particularly those at risk of poverty or homelessness - remain excluded from the opportunities that could transform their lives and strengthen their communities.
Stuart Greenway, Managing Director of Big Issue Recruit, explains: “We act as a specialist recruitment service for anyone who faces barriers to employment. By offering comprehensive, people-focused support delivered by specialist job coaches, we give candidates the practical tools and confidence they need to take their next step into the workplace.”
Big Issue Recruit applied for a grant from the nBS Foundation to embed two dedicated job coaches directly into the Birmingham and West Midlands region for a 12-month period.
This investment not only improves Big Issue Recruit’s local presence, but it also strengthens links with employers, creating a foundation for sustainable, employer-funded support in the future.
The funding covers approximately 80% of the job coaches’ salaries, alongside essential costs such as travel and outreach materials. Over the course of the year, these specialists will deliver intensive, one-to-one mentorship to 200 local candidates, guiding them through how to build an online brand, navigating digital applications, and mastering interview techniques.
Crucially, the support extends far beyond the initial hire. Big Issue Recruit makes sure people aren’t just placed into roles, but are supported to stay and develop in these roles too. What’s more, the coaches work closely with inclusive employers to adapt recruitment and onboarding practices to meet these specific needs.
This funding is essential to allow the organisation to engage with and support local people in finding long-term work. By having two dedicated job coaches in the Birmingham and West Midlands area, our impact is that much greater.
Stuart Greenway, Managing Director of Big Issue RecruitThe social value generated by this project is impressive. By the end of the 12-month period, Big Issue Recruit aims to have 160 candidates ‘work-ready’, and at least 80 individuals placed into meaningful roles.
Beyond individual success, the project strengthens the entire regional employment ecosystem. Households benefit from increased financial stability, and local employers gain access to a more diverse, resilient, and better-prepared talent pool. This funding serves as a vital stepping stone too, allowing Big Issue Recruit to build deep infrastructure and permanent employer partnerships across the Midlands.
Stuart adds: "With the right level of support, we can fundamentally change the trajectory of people’s lives. By investing in these two dedicated and local job coaches, we are demonstrating the powerful social impact that occurs when you remove the specific barriers holding individuals back from the workplace.
“Everyone facing significant challenges in securing work across the West Midlands deserves the right support, and this funding from the nBS Foundation ensures we can be there to provide it.”
Neesha, one of the dedicated job coaches chosen for this project, commented: “This funding has created opportunities for Birmingham clients to receive flexible tailored support, allowing them to progress in their lives by upskilling and finding suitable employment, while also supporting local business’ with their staffing needs.”