1. www.bitc.org.uk Ready for Work Welfare to Work Conference Rebecca Ford Policy & Research Manager rebecca.ford@bitc.org.uk www.bitc.org.uk/readyforwork

2. www.bitc.org.uk What is Ready for Work? A four stage programme with businesses engaged throughout... Registration Pre- placement training Work Placement Post- placement support “Businesses must not underestimate the power of Ready for Work. The pleasure our people get from helping someone change their life is enormous and translates into building a motivated and loyal workforce.” - Barry Quatermass, IMS Director, Carillion

3. www.bitc.org.uk 160 businesses engaged in 20 cities Where are we?

4. www.bitc.org.uk Who do we help? Previous rough sleepers30% Currently homeless - living in hostel27% Ex-offenders29% Care leavers12% Previous substance dependence17% Previous alcohol dependence13% Ex-forces5%

5. www.bitc.org.uk Our impact 7,000+ people have been supported by the programme and over 3,000+ have gained employment since 2001. 40%+ of people who complete work placements enter employment. 27.3% of clients have gained a sustained job outcome compared to official Work Programme statistics of 14.7% for the equivalent Work Programme Group of clients (Early Access Group).

6. www.bitc.org.uk Key features of the programme Specialist expertise for the client group Strong links with referral agencies Employers involved throughout all stages Understanding business drivers and needs Managing ‘risk’ for employers Educating employers about the client group Consistent programme across multiple locations Single point of contact nationally and robust account management Evaluation of client outcomes AND benefits to business Strong track record which helps us push boundaries

7. www.bitc.org.uk And finally… “My friends and family have noticed how much happier I have been since I got back to work. I now feel much more part of society, like I am making a difference to something.” - Ready for Work client with unspent convictions