Trustees Report 2013

steps to work Developing and delivering training programmes, and creating employment opportunities for the local community, for over 13 years

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trustees report 2013

steps to work the trustees are pleaseD to present their annual report toGether with consoliDateD Financial stateMents oF the charity For the year enDinG 31st March 2013

Steps to Work (Walsall) Ltd is a registered charity formed in 1999, Charity No.1100403 and a Company Limited by guarantee constituted under the Companies Act 2006 and registered in England and Wales, Company Registration 3738249.

The registered office of the charity is Challenge Building, Hatherton Road, Walsall, WS1 1XS. The charity operates a wholly owned subsidiary, Starting Point Recruitment Ltd, which is a Company Limited by shares and registered in England and Wales, Registration No. 4560776, formed in October 2002. The registered office for Starting Point Recruitment is the same as that of the charity.

As an organisation we are committed to equality and diversity and to a working environment that is free from any form of discrimination on the grounds of colour, ethnicity, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or disability.

our Mission: ‘We will work with our current and future customers, to develop and deliver a range of first class measures to support training and the creation of sustainable employment. This will lead to improved levels of skills and employment within the Black Country, making a positive difference to people regardless of their background’.

we will achieve this Mission by: • Remaining innovative, flexible and responsive to our customers’ needs.

• Delivering a professional service for our customers.

• Supporting local companies to achieve their recruitment goals.

• Building strong, sustainable partnerships.

• Striving for continuous improvement in everything we do.

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the coMpany our obJectives For public beneFit

The company’s objectives are to promote all and any charitable purposes for the benefit of those who are unemployed. Offering practical advice, personal support and any charitable purpose, for the benefit of those who are employed. We offer training, development and tuition (in the case of the stated objectives) within the Metropolitan Borough of Walsall, the City of Wolverhampton and all adjacent areas, as well as other areas designated from time to time by the Trustees.

In setting our objectives and planning our activities, our Trustees have given careful consideration to the Charity Commission’s guidance on public benefit.

Underlying our main objectives has been the need to generate external funding to support our activities while providing a high quality service to our customers and stakeholders.

Throughout the existence of the company we have been reliant upon funding from external sources, secured through successful applications to the Department of Work and Pensions, Skills Funding Agency, European Social Fund, Neighbourhood Renewal Fund, Working Neighbourhood Fund, Deprived Area Fund and New Horizons Community Enterprise (Walsall’s New Deal for Communities).

A full list of funding partners is provided on page 51.

The impact as an organisation on providing public benefit will be seen from the outputs and outcomes, measured or non quantifiable, which arise from our work, these include:• Assisting large numbers of people disadvantaged in the labour market to improve their skills through advice, guidance and training, examples of which are detailed further in this report.

• Developing and delivering projects and programmes that provide benefits to individuals and groups that meet the company’s overall aims and mission.

• Providing access to support regardless of people’s ability to pay for the service and where private benefits are incidental.

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steps to work delivers through its various sites projects and programmes which aim to: ● Develop people’s skills ● promote employment opportunities to people who face specific disadvantage in the labour market

Delivery is unDertaken throuGh six sites, Five in walsall anD one in wolverhaMpton Townend House The Townend House offices opened in August 2006, situated on Park Street within the Town Centre of Walsall. We occupy premises on the third and fifth floors for delivery with some corporate finance & administration functions on part of floor seven. Monday to Friday, Steps to Work deliver training sessions, supports customers with interviews, employer engagement, sales administration, ICT and customer awareness training for the DWP Work Programme.

Caldmore One Stop Shop Caldmore One Stop Shop is based at 14 Caldmore Green, Walsall, WS1 3RL. The premises opened its doors to customers in February 2011, although the project itself commenced in April 2010, running from the Mobile Information Unit. The project predominantly covers the areas of Caldmore, Palfrey and Pleck.

In addition the shop operates a pilot project entitled Support for Emerging Minority Groups.

Darlaston JET The Darlaston Multi Agency One Stop Shop, or Darlaston JET as it is better known, has been in operation since August 2008 and is based at 40 King Street, Darlaston, WS10 8DE. The shop serves Darlaston South, Bentley and Darlaston North, Willenhall North, Willenhall South and Short Heath.

Walsall One Stop Shop The Walsall One Stop commenced delivery on the 1st April 2010; it is delivered from existing premises located within Challenge Building, Hatherton Road, Walsall, WS1 1XS. The primary focus is workless residents from the most deprived ward and neighbourhood areas in the Walsall Borough, namely St Matthews.

Work on the Horizon Initially commenced in 2003 as an outreach service based on the Mobile Information Unit the premises at 1 Queens Parade, High Street, Bloxwich, Walsall, West Midlands became fully operational in June 2005 serving the residents of the Bloxwich and Blakenall area.

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St Johns House (Wolverhampton) The Wolverhampton Office was established in September 2005. It is located in St John’s House, Church Street, Wolverhampton, WV2 4BH.

You can read about each of the projects outlined from page 12 of this report.

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trustees Councillor Tom Ansell Mrs Vera Birch Ms Mandy Holcroft (1) Miss Susan Wakeman Ms Carole Wildman Mr Stephen Preston Mrs Mary Clarke Mr Robert Thomas Mr David Brown Mr Manjit Singh Jhooty Mrs Ravinder Sahota Mr Patrick Newland Mr David Bassett Mrs Susan Wood Mr Michael Hew

senior ManaGeMent teaM Councillor Community Resident Assistant Director of Housing Services Director of Human Resources Director of Regeneration and Development (Chair) Managing Director Community Resident Community Resident Community Resident Managing Director Centre Owner Managing Director Director Community Resident Chief Executive

John Brewer Susan Brookes Anne Marie Ruddy Trevor Codner Crystina Woolley

Chief Executive Officer Finance & Administration Manager Senior Manager (Wolverhampton) Senior Manager (Walsall) Business Continuity Information & Compliance Manager

corporate teaM Raj Sarai Claudette Stephenson Katie Sohal David Jones

Personnel Officer Personnel Officer (Maternity cover) Marketing Officer Health & Safety Officer

(1) Resigned 25/05/2012

2 6 7 8 10 42 48 50 52 54 56 58

Company overview The Chair’s Statement Structure, Governance and Management The Chief Executive’s Statement Delivering Public Benefit (includes statistics and case studies) Highlights of the year Financial Review Summarised Accounts Risks and Opportunities The Future Employer Engagement Partnerships and Funding Partners

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trustees report 2013

chairs stateMent

The 1 past twelve months has flown by, I would like to take this opportunity to thank my fellow Trustees for the support they have given me, the management and

staff of the company which has allowed it to effectively serve the residents and businesses of the area.

As an organisation we have remained focused on achievement and during the past year we have successfully become one of the few organisations to be awarded Leadership in Diversity status demonstrating our commitment to equality and diversity and supporting our Investors in People accreditation gained previously. The maintenance of Matrix, ISO 9001 and 14001 have also ensured that we demonstrate that our services are developed and delivered with sustainability and quality at the heart of our work.

Financially this has been a challenging year with further transition to a greater level of output related funding. This has resulted in the Trustees maintaining the desire to restrict the majority of funds to provide a basis for moving forward and meet the challenging cash flow issues which we face.

I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank all those businesses who have provided opportunities for our customers, those Carole Wildman

partners who have developed their services in support of our aims and

Acting Chair

our customers, some of who have allowed their stories to be recognised within our Annual Report for 2012/2013.

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appointMent oF trustees New Trustees are appointed through a process of open recruitment. To become a Trustee candidates must either live or work within the geographical area of operation (Walsall and Wolverhampton) and have an empathy with the work being undertaken by Steps to Work.

Job descriptions and job specifications are produced for the main key roles and for general Trustees. Appointments are made on the basis of individual skills and abilities.

A Trustees’ handbook is used which outlines the role of the Trustee along with a Trustees’ induction book which provides further information about the role and its responsibilities.

A budget is set aside to develop board members and provide training where required ensuring that all Trustees’ have a common understanding and ethos. To ensure that wholesale changes are not made, a rolling programme of annual changes has been agreed whereby all members will, over a three year programme, be subject to possible retirement.

structure, Governance anD ManaGeMent Appoint: Govern: Organize:

Creating amazing opportunities for local people and local business’s

Expressions of interest for potential new Trustees are now sought between July and September each year. Anyone expressing an interest will be given a copy of the job description and person specification and asked to complete an application form by an agreed closing date.

Interviews will be set up with a panel of existing Trustees and the Company Secretary who will take account of the candidate’s skills and abilities as the basis for a recommendation to the Annual General Meeting held in September each year.

GoverninG DocuMent The company is registered as a Company Limited by guarantee in England and Wales (Ref: 3738249) and is governed in accordance with its Memorandum and Articles of Association.

orGanisational structure The Board of Trustees meets bi-monthly and receives reports from the Chief Executive on strategic and operational issues. Each report contains historical performance data and a series of recommendations prepared by the Chief Executive on which the board are required to make decisions.

To allow for a smooth and efficient operation, many of the day-to-day decisions are delegated to the Chief Executive. With the support of the Senior Management Team, the Chief Executive will take decisions in line with the company’s Memorandum and Articles of Association, relevant agreed policies and procedures which cover financial transactions, personnel and marketing activities, along with contractual obligations outlined within Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and contracts.

obJectives anD activities to proviDe public beneFit Establish: Provide: Develop:

Steps to Work (Walsall) Limited, through its activities aims to: ● Establish and operate a multi-functional employment and training programme serving the Black Country and surrounding areas. ● Provide employment and training opportunities for employed and unemployed residents of the Black Country, in particular those in Walsall and Wolverhampton. ● Develop partnership arrangements with other local organisations to support the employment and training of local people.

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chieF executives stateMent

Welcome to the 2012/2013 Trustees Report for Steps to 1 Work (Walsall) Limited.

Within the last year, challenges caused by the economic uncertainty have kept us busy as we have tried to provide services to customers in a tight labour market which has shown little overall movement in the claimant counts during the year.

The management and staff at Steps to Work have needed to adapt with the times, seek new opportunities and ways of working as programme funding ceases as a result of central and local Government budgets being re-focused.

Working as a Sub Contractor for several organisations has been a major challenge. As an independent small charity we have needed to manage our finances carefully as much of our work is payment by results.

Balancing income and expenditure whilst increasing public benefit has been extremely difficult in such prudent economic times.

The following pages will highlight just some of the projects and partnerships in which we have been involved during the past twelve months. The report will also showcase some of the customer

John Brewer Chief Executive,

achievements and provide a look into what the board and management of the company see as some of the challenges going forward.

Steps to Work (Walsall)

“the ‘one stop’ shop staff were really helpful, i took part in their training course and i now have found work and the project is still supporting me even now with travel expenses.”

Sharnie

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“i’ve been really pleased and grateful for the support that steps to work have given me and without them i’d still be claiming benefits. it’s a great feeling to come into work in the morning” Aaron

“proactive, professional and caring attitude that they work above and beyond what is expected of them. the whole team have a ‘can do’ attitude and do their very best to support customers” Karen

“a very big thank you to steps to work for giving me the boost i needed and supporting me after 7 years of being out of work” Christine

“From the start i knew i wanted to be an instructor, but without the support and finance from Darlaston Jet i wouldn’t have been able to afford to put myself through the training i needed and would have still been unemployed” Sean

“excellent support in perfecting my interview techniques which made me comfortable and confident during a real interview process” Wesley

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DeliverinG public beneFit this section describes how the activities and services we deliver meet the various principles of ‘public benefit’ as set out by the charities commission and in so doing provides real, measurable benefits for the people who have been supported by us

There must be an identifiable benefit or benefits The identifiable benefit or benefits are recognised from the large numbers of people, experiencing disadvantage in the labour market (our customers) who we have assisted to improve their skills, qualifications and employment prospects (Principle 1a) by providing advice, guidance and training through programmes such as:• • • • •

3SC EOS Work on the Horizon (New Horizons Community Enterprise) Darlaston JET (Working Neighbourhoods Fund) Programmes to assist those not in Employment, Education or Training (NEETs) • WorkWise • Other projects designed to assist employees and employers

The benefits of providing opportunities for people to overcome their personal barriers, and improve their skills and employment prospects, are via the delivery of the above programmes. This directly relates to the aims, objectives and mission of the Charity (Principle 1b) as stated.

Delivering high quality, inclusive services that benefit our customers and, by default, the wider community, is wholly integral to the work we do as a Charity.

Further details of the various programmes and projects we have delivered, are provided in the summaries of various projects and in the case studies of some of the customers we have supported, as featured throughout this report.

The services we deliver for the benefit of our customers are balanced against any detriment or harm to individuals, groups or the environment (Principle 1c).

The Trustees have examined the programmes, projects and actions, which are undertaken by the organisation and believe that its work delivers net benefit to the public. Through its work of assisting people disadvantaged in the labour market, customers can gain the skills and knowledge to access sustainable employment and/or improve their skills. The Trustees have reviewed their actions and believe that any detriment or harm caused through its actions are minimal and would not outweigh any potential benefit.

The organisation has, as part of its commitment to reducing any potential detriment or harm, developed strategies, policies and actions that minimise any damage to the environment. The strategic principles are published through our sustainable development policy and environmental policy statements.

We work to ensure that actions that could be seen to be dangerous or damaging to mental or physical health, or that encourage or promote violence or hatred towards others are outlined within our Equality and Diversity strategy, policies and procedures. External recognition is seen through our award of Committed to Equality standard, Investors in People Gold Award and our award of the Disability two ticks.

Practical examples are seen through our strict health and safety procedures which we have in place to ensure the safety and welfare of all customers, staff and visitors. This includes any activity that takes place on our own premises or when undertaking activities in other locations. We encourage all of our customers and staff to use public transport wherever possible to minimise the environmental impact of any journeys they make.

Please see the details for the Workwise project for more information.

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Benefit Benefit mustmust be tobethe to public, the public, or a or section a section of the of public the public In line the programmes we have have been targeted predominantly Inwith line our withaims our and aimsobjectives, and objectives, the programmes wedelivered have delivered have been targeted predominantly at the unemployed populations (our customers) of Walsall and(Principle 2a) at the unemployed resident populationsresident (our customers) of Walsall and Wolverhampton Wolverhampton (Principle much of funding provided to targeted, support our work is as much of the funding provided2a) toas support ourthe work is geographically in accordance with the geographically targeted, in accordance with the service level agreements we operate. service level agreements we operate.

We consider a group represents importantsection sectionof of the the community as We consider thatthat suchsuch a group represents ananimportant as they theyinclude include individuals significant barriers levels of need.

Customers therefore require specific individuals withwith significant barriers and and greatgreat levels of need.

Customers therefore require specific help help andtosupport to overcome barriers realise their potential.

We believe that by our enabling and support overcome barriers and realiseand their potential.

We believe that by enabling customers our customers to overcome disadvantage, are helping to ensure thatto they arefulfilling able to lead to overcome disadvantage, we are helping towe ensure that they are able lead lives and fulfilling lives andboth contribute positively, economically and socially, the they communities in contribute positively, economically andboth socially, to the communities in to which live. which they live.

As a Charity, our aim is to provide benefit to the widest range of people. Therefore, the organisation takes a Charity, our aim is to provide to the widest range of people. the organisation a proAsactive response to developing andbenefit delivering a diverse projects,Therefore, which benefit our target takes a pro response torestricted developing deliveringrestrictions, a diverse range projects, which benefit group.

Benefit is active not unreasonably byand geographical or byofthe ability of an individual ourfortarget group.

Benefit 2b). is not unreasonably restricted geographical restrictions, or by the ability to pay a service (Principle The only constraints withinbyindividual programmes are where external of an individual restrictions apply. to pay for a service (Principle 2b). The only constraints within individual programmes are where external restrictions apply.

No person is restricted from benefiting because they are in poverty, as most courses and programmes No personfunded is restricted from2c). benefiting because they are in as mostwecourses and are externally (Principle In fact, the vast majority of poverty, the customers support areprogrammes likely to are externally funded (Principle 2c). fact,on thethe vast majority social of the and customers webarriers supportthey are face. likely be definable as ‘being in poverty’.

This is In based economic, personal to be definable as ‘being poverty’. is based on the and personal barriers we No person or organisation willinaccrue anyThis private benefits, as economic, a result of social the support and assistance face. (Principle No person2d). or organisation will accrue any private benefits, as a result of the support and havethey provided assistance we have provided (Principle 2d).

The graphs on page 45 show the background of the customers we have assisted in the The graphs on page XXThe show the background of the customers we have assisted in the financial year 2012/2013. breakdown of unemployed customers by their own definition, assisted

by Steps Work, are detailed by gender, ethnic origin, age and disability. financial yearto 2011/2012.

The breakdown of unemployed customers by their own definition, assisted by Steps to Work, are detailed by gender, ethnic origin, age and disability.

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The following pages provide an overview of the many different projects and programmes contracted to Steps to Work during this financial year.

All have enabled us to achieve our aims and objectives to deliver a service to our customers and the wider community. The summaries shown allow you to observe the level and scope of provision Steps to Work are able to offer. There are many case studies of customers and partnerships we have successfully built over the last twelve months.

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‘One Stop’ Employment shops

the Multi aGency ‘one stop’ shops

 Maoss The Multi Agency One Stop Shop project is partially funded by the European Regional Development Fund in conjunction with Walsall MBC and Working Neighbourhood Funds.

The four shops are based in Bloxwich, Caldmore, Darlaston and Walsall Town Centre. They help unemployed Walsall residents overcome barriers to gaining employment, offering a range of services in a local friendly, welcoming environment. They work in partnership with key organisations and providers.

The shops allow users to access partners services for one to one support for Information, Advice & Guidance, Careers Advice, CV completion and interview techniques as well as signposting to more specialist organisations. By housing all of the key support agencies under one roof, within their local area, residents can easily access all of the support that they need to get them back into employment. Local employers work closely with the shops to ensure that local people can acquire the necessary skills to take advantage of local employment opportunities.

DurinG 2012-2013 the shops assisteD the FollowinG nuMber oF custoMers; ● ● ● ●

Caldmore One Stop Shop – 971 Darlaston Jet – 964 Walsall One Stop Shop – 897 Work on the Horizon – 1,254

● Total Walsall residents assisted – 4,216

Partners include Prospects Connexions Walsall NHS Stop Smoking NHS Health Trainer Pathways to Enterprises Walsall Probation Service Citizen Advice Bureau Welfare Rights Walsall Health Service Walsall Adult Community College Jobcentre Plus

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trustees report 2013

“i am very pleased with the service, help and support i have received from work on the horizon. they have given me everything i needed to get back to work”

Tony

work on the horizon DurinG 2012-2013 local resiDents were assisteD with the FollowinG

● 428 Customers with careers advice

 woth Work on the Horizon is the North Walsall One Stop Shop based upon Bloxwich High Street and covers the Bloxwich East, Bloxwich West, Birchills Leamore and Blakenall wards.

The shop and its experienced staff offer a range of interventions individually tailored to meet the needs of the local residents, aged 16 years and over, to assist them towards sustainable employment. These interventions can include the construction of CV’s, Information Advice and Guidance, access to employment vacancies, help with application forms, training and in work support.

The shop works in partnership with local employers by offering companies free support with their recruitment needs.

To assist users address other barriers the shop also works in partnership with a number of other organisations such as Jobcentre Plus, Healthy living, Stop Smoking, Walsall Adult Community College, Walsave, CAB and more.

● 359 Were assisted with IAG ● 205 Customers gaining a qualification ● 262 Supported into employment

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During 2012-2013 Work on the Horizon was funded by Working neighbourhood Fund, European Regional Development Fund and the View fund.

Darlaston Jet The figures below could not have been achieved without the on-going support of our partner organisations which include:N.H.S., Welfare Rights, Jobcentre Plus, National Careers Service, Walsall Adult Community College and West Midlands Police.

 DJet Darlaston JET (Jobs Education & Training) is situated within the main retail area of Darlaston in the borough of Walsall.

The main aim of the project is to offer a range of interventions in order to assist local residents in improving their employability skills and employment opportunities, whilst also assisting local companies with recruitment, signposting to support services and training. This is achieved through the ‘Multi Agency’ approach of working with partner organisations in order to offer services such as:For residents: Bespoke training, mentoring, C.V. compilation, interview techniques and financial support where appropriate.

2012-13 suMMary

For companies: In-house training, free vacancy advertising, compilation and delivery of application forms, use of interview rooms on site, pre-screening of applicants, introductions to other related organisations.

The project began in 2008 and covers a wide area of deprived wards, namely: Bentley and Darlaston North; Darlaston South; Short Heath; Willenhall North; Willenhall South.

● 278 Customers with careers advice ● 427 Were assisted with IAG ● 85 Customers gaining a qualification ● 174 Supported into employment

During 2012-13 we have built on the previous year’s ‘outreach’ activities, and are now established in all of our wards, in particular the Bentley and Darlaston North and Willenhall North wards through our regular visits to ‘The Hub’ and Fibbersley respectively.

One of our main objectives over the past year was to increase employer engagement activities. Although we are represented at board level on both Darlaston Business Park and Darlaston Town Centre Company, we went the ‘extra mile’ and organised a Business Networking Event. Held at Darlaston Town Hall, the event was aimed at connecting young people and local businesses, whilst also informing local companies of what opportunities and assistance was on offer now that Darlaston is within the local Enterprise Zone. The event was supported by over one hundred companies and more than sixty pupils from local schools.

“without the staff and the project i know i would have really struggled to find employment”

Mark Darlaston

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www.stepstowork.co.uk

“i have learnt some new skills with preparation to work, which has boosted my confidence in working with others”

Chris

walsall one stop eMployMent

shop DurinG 2012-2013 the walsall one stop eMployMent shop assisteD

● 253 Customers with careers advice ● 399 Were assisted with IAG ● 144 Customers gaining a qualification ● 101 Supported into employment

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 woss The Walsall One Stop Shop offers support to the workless residents of the St Matthews ward by assessing users needs and breaking down any identified barriers.

A personal and specific action plan is developed with each user to assist them towards employment and support mechanisms are put in place to maximise their chances of success.

Vacancies are sourced by working in partnership with local employers and users are enabled to apply for said vacancies by being assisted with CV’s, Interview technique sessions, help with application forms and where possible offered financial support with equipment, clothing and travel.

Partner organisations also offer their services from our premises to ensure that all users needs are met.

calDMore one stop eMployMent

shop a suMMary oF perForMance in 2012-13 is as Follows

● 269 Customers with careers advice ● 400 Were assisted with IAG ● 123 Customers gaining a qualification

 coss COSS is a ‘Multi Agency One Stop Employment Shop’ situated within the community of Caldmore in the south of the Walsall Borough.

The purpose of the project is to develop a robust worklessness action which will set out a package of support to contribute to the Borough’s ability to tackle worklessness in Walsall.

Its aims are to provide: ● ● ● ●

Employer support and engagement: brokerage of wage subsidies, training, equipment; Employability support: targeting residents needing specific help to become work focussed; Cross referrals: gaining clients from and passing clients to other service providers; Provision of a mobile facility to target services at all residents within Caldmore, Palfrey and Pleck

To achieve these aims, we provide a range of services which include, for individuals, high quality information, advice and guidance; job search facilities; CV development; support with application forms and preparation for interviews; training and in work support. For employers we offer a bespoke recruitment package which includes advertisement of vacancies, initial sifting of CVs, interview support and facilities, and wage subsidies for SMEs. To support us in delivering the highest standard of service, we work in partnership with a range of organisations both in and out of the shop premises. Partners who deliver from within the shop on a regular basis include Walsall Probation, Citizens Advice Bureau, Stop Smoking Service and Walsall Adult and Community College. Partners we have worked with in the local community include Palfrey Sure Start, Joseph Leckie School and Aaina Women’s Centre.

● 179 Supported into employment

We have seen a large increase in the number of customers who are from an Eastern European background. This has brought with it many challenges, including a language barrier. To address this, we applied for temporary funding from the Walsall South Area Partnership and have recruited a member of staff who can speak Polish, Czech and Slovakian.

“useful information, polite staff team in a friendly and relaxed environment” Kira

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trustees report 2013

Miu Gets a new look the Mobile inForMation unit (Miu) has been Given a new lease oF liFe with Fresh new Graphics, transForMinG it FroM Drab to Fab

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ďƒŒ Miu The Mobile Information Unit has been providing residents with an outreach service, going into the most vulnerable and deprived areas of Walsall to support and regenerate the Borough.

During 2012 the vehicle went through a makeover to provide our customers with a more equipped service.

The services include specialist employment advice, employability development, training, subsidised work placements, work readiness, confidence building, mentoring, access to work equipment, childcare, subsidised travel and bespoke tailored support.

The Steps to Work Mobile Information Unit, is a project individual to Walsall and surrounding areas. There is no other service like it in our area that is supporting communities and giving outreach support to those who need it most.

It has been very successful in engaging with the wider community and to customers that we do not reach through our other services.

workwise the workwise project

DepartMent For work anD pensions

operates in walsall in partnership with walsall

Dwp

Mbc and centro

Long-term unemployment is damaging to individuals and communities, it affects mental and physical health, and holds back economic growth.

The objective of the Work Wise project is to assist unemployed Walsall residents with public transport whilst seeking and taking up employment together with promoting the sustainable use of public transport.

The project offers free travel information including timetables and journey planners. It also offers unlimited free travel day tickets to attend job interviews and a month’s travel pass once they commence employment.

These travel passes can be issued for use on the bus, tram or train within the network boundaries dependent upon the individual customers needs.

During 2012-2013, 239 passes were issued to enable local residents to attend interviews and 666 passes were issued to people commencing employment.

We want to help people into work and make sure that work pays. In return, people on out-ofwork benefits need to take the opportunities available to them to move off benefits and into work.

Out of work older people can find it more difficult to get a job and they are more likely than younger people to remain unemployed for longer.

The Work Programme provides personalised support for claimants who need more help looking for and staying in work. Service providers have freedom to decide how best to support Work Programme participants while meeting minimum standards for delivering the service.

This is a major change in the way we help people move from welfare to work in this country.

The Government has created a structure that treats people as individuals and allowing providers greater freedom to tailor the right support to the individual needs of each claimant.

Steps to Work have been delivering the Work Programme since 2011 and will continue to do as contracted under the Department of Work and Pensions until 2014.

The Work Programme also gives value for money for the taxpayer by basing payments to providers largely on results they achieve. The Work Programme is part funded by the European Social Fund.

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www.stepstowork.co.uk

work proGraMMe

proJect overview “i never would have thought i could find job vacancies on my mobile phone - they showed me how!”

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Omar

 work proGraMMe The focus of the Work Programme is to support a variety of unemployed individuals in receipt of various types of benefits such as Job Seekers Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, Invalidity Benefit and more recently Prison Leavers, to move into sustainable work. Work Programme is outcome based and is measured by placing customers into a job for 13 weeks, or 26 weeks and 4 weekly sustained periods of continual employment thereafter.

All customers due to join the Work Programme are referred by Jobcentre Plus, the advisers determine a customer’s eligibility for the Programme and, where customers have the option to volunteer, will determine whether the Work Programme is the most appropriate option for that person.

Jobcentre Plus will allocate customers to one of the three Work Programme Prime contractors for the West Midlands area and they will in turn allocate individuals to themselves or their sub-contractors.

We are responsible as a subcontractor for the Walsall area engaging with customers for EOS and Newcastle College Intraining (managed by 3SC). We conduct attachment interviews within 15 working days of the customer being referred and have up to 104 weeks to support the customers, unless the customer completes the programme early, by finding work, the 104 weeks includes periods where a customer is off benefit.

Whilst customers are on the Work Programme, they will be assigned a personal coach, attend tutor led employability courses have access to one to one and group jobsearch, pre-employment training specialist support, community projects, health and wellbeing advice, housing advice employment options and other services

 work proGraMMe eos The delivery model for EOS is based on their contractual processes, the customer journey starts at a one to one initial contact officer’s attachment meeting and then the customer is assigned a personal coach who conducts further face to face, home visit or telephone interviews and agrees an action plan which is reviewed during a minimum contact of at least every 4 weeks.

“i would like to thank the staff on the work programme for their help and support that has led to me getting a full time job”

Dorren

The Job Seekers Allowance customers are mandated to take part in an awareness session, informing them about the Work Programme, fortnightly interventions, soft skills, taught job search, employability skills, work trials, placements internal and external accredited and non-accredited training, ICT training interview techniques, job matching and supported to apply for jobs.

When they have found a job, in work support is made available to help with the transition from benefit to work. Employment and Support Allowance customer cannot be mandated to take part in the activities but are strongly encouraged to so and have the same opportunities offered to them as the Job Seekers Allowance customers.

Part of the delivery model involves fast track to employment courses (FTTE) based around regular attendance by customers on a daily basis over a period of 4 weeks which includes employability training.

The impact of the support is measured by their EOS management information system which is a move from a paper based system. Following the initial weeks activity the customers attends the centre a minimum of every 4 weeks with a one to one job focused interview with their coach and a full initial advice and guidance review every 12 weeks.

EOS have given us a level of flexibility to add our individually tailored service and we deliver additional accredited and none accredited training to enhance the support the customer receives. We also link our customers to the ‘One Stop’ Employment Shops who also offer various levels of customer support.

We have engaged over 2,677 customers and helped 813 into work.

 work proGraMMe newcastle colleGe intraininG (ManaGeD by 3sc) The Intraining contract targets the same customer group as EOS but this is a smaller contract.

Their delivery model comprises of 5 stages for the customer, invite, invigorate, inspire, intensity and independence. This supports the customer journey to improve employability prospects.

Intraining have allowed us the flexibility to enhance the programme and even deviate from their prescribed delivery. The overall model is very similar to EOS as both have been derived from DWP specifications.

The Intraining customers are seen by a personal coach who conducts the attachment and the customer is assigned to that coach from the beginning of their journey. They are seen on a fortnightly basis where an action plan is agreed and customers’ targets set.

Here customers are supported by employability courses and intensive job search activities, placement, opportunities and internal and external training. Intraining uses an IT system called Maytas to record and monitor customer activity on the programme.

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trustees report 2013

supporteD housinG The Supported Housing project, funded by Walsall MBC has been developed and designed to support clients who are currently being accommodated within Supported Housing accommodation, the Gypsy & Travellers site or who are deemed to be homeless, all based within the Walsall Borough.

The key aim is to provide a process of engagement, encouragement, mentoring and motivation to improve future outcomes of clients who are in these temporary supported housing programmes. The vast majority of these are clients that are economically inactive and / or unemployed with multiple barriers to break down. The key aim and objective of the intervention is to help them overcome barriers that the clients may face which will in turn improve their long term employability factors.

proGraMMes oFFerinG traininG anD QualiFications

The project has engaged with 99 individuals, of these 86 have received Information Advice and Guidance, 54 have been referred to more specialist support, 41 have been referred to individual training and 13 have been supported into employment.

Flexibilities In June 2012 Steps to Work were awarded a project to deliver Employability Skills Training in Wolverhampton as a Sub Contractor to Performance Through People.

The eligibility criteria for this programme is that the learner is aged 19+ and in receipt of benefits (JSA, ESA or Income Support) and they must be eligible to work in the UK. The course content includes Working as Part of a group, Preparation for Work, Searching for a Job, Writing a CV, Business and Customer Awareness and Preparation for an Interview, the programme is qualification led with learners gaining a Level 1 Certificate in Employability Skills.

Course content also includes Safeguarding, Equality & Diversity and Health & Safety. The course aims are to motivate and prepare each learner with the knowledge and skills required for attending interviews and presenting personal information either in the form of a CV or a written application form, the programme is designed for each individual to make job applications specific to their areas of work, comparing job specifications to transferrable skills.

ManDatory work activity In October 2012 Steps to Work were awarded a project to deliver Mandated Work Activity in Wolverhampton and Walsall as a sub contractor to esg Group.

MWA is for JSA customers only and is mandatory for those who are referred.

The programme is designed to help and support unemployed people to move into work, as this is a mandated programme we do not market this provision, referrals are made from job centre advisors to the prime contractor (esg) who then allocate customers to sub contracted provision.

MWA is intended to help customers move closer to the labour market, enabling them to establish the disciplines and habits of working life, carry out specific tasks and working under supervision while delivering a contribution to the local community.

Customers who are referred to the programme are required to engage in a work placement lasting for four weeks, for up to 30 hours per week over a seven day period, the placement must be of benefit to the local community. Customers are provided with travel expenses and support while in placement and on completion the placement activity can be added to a CV and the Placement Host will provide a reference.

Placements are varied enough to supply work experience in Customer Care, Administration, IT Support, Retail, Driving Delivery Vehicles, Warehousing, Classroom Support, Animal Care, Cleaning, Catering, Sports Coaching, Gardening, and General DIY Maintenance.

To date we have engaged 181 customers in the Wolverhampton area and 261 in the Walsall area.

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walsall aDult coMMunity colleGe

wacc stranD 1 Working in partnership with the Walsall Adult Community College, Steps to Work are delivering a number of training courses, both accredited and non accredited, within local venues. The courses are available to any Walsall Borough unemployed resident aged 19 years plus and are delivered from a number of locations including Challenge Building, Townend House, Work on the Horizon and the Caldmore One Stop Shop.

The programmes are available to any Walsall Borough resident who is unemployed, or under notice of redundancy and is aged 19 years or over. All learners complete an individual learning plan and can enrol upon the programme which best suits their needs and requirements.

Courses available include Improving Job Hunting Skills, Preparation for Employment including ICT, Introduction to IT, Motivation & Life Skills and Employability Skills.

wacc stranD 2 Funded by The Walsall Adult Community College this project aims to deliver accredited training, in both ICT and Employability, to Walsall residents aged 19 years and above.

DurinG 2012-2013 there were: ● 713 enrolments onto Improving Job Hunting Skills ● 53 enrolments onto Preparation for Employment including ICT

The courses are set within local community venues such as Challenge Building in central Walsall, Caldmore One Stop Shop, Work on the Horizon and Townend House.

Since September 2012, 59 Walsall residents have taken advantage of this opportunity.

wacc stranD 3 Funded by The Walsall Adult Community College this project offers local residents who have no computer skills a basic introduction to various aspects of using this technology to assist with their job search.

● 147 enrolments onto Introduction to IT ● 108 enrolments onto Motivation & Life Skills ● 104 enrolments onto Employability Skills

The course is held at Work on the Horizon and consists of 2 hour sessions per week. These sessions include Introduction to Computers, Introduction to Word Processing, Introduction to the Internet, Introduction to Email and Introduction to using Universal Job Matching Service.

These courses commenced in August 2012 and have resulted in 147 enrolments.

Strand 3 also fund a Confidence & Motivation and Employability Skills course run from Work on the Horizon once a week. The Confidence & Motivation course runs for 4 hours a week over 4 weeks. The course covers Assertiveness & Confidence Building, Motivation & Development, Following Instruction & Problem Solving, Stress Management.

It is designed for customers who are unemployed and have lost their confidence which is affecting their ability to find employment.

The Employability Skills course also runs for 4 hours per week over 4 weeks.

These courses commenced in August 2012 and have resulted in 221 enrolments.

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www.stepstowork.co.uk

“with the support of staff and training provided on the step ahead programme, i have gained full time employment in mental health care and working towards nvQ level 2 in health & social care. i am earning and learning, i couldnt be happier!” Craig

youth provision

steps to work Deliver neet

step aheaD

provision as a priMe contractor within the wolverhaMpton area, the priMary Focus is neet

The Step Ahead programme is designed for young people residing in the Wolverhampton and surrounding areas.

Learners are young people not in education, employment or training (NEET) and are referred to the programme by Connexions, Youth Club Leaders, Social Workers, Job Centre Advisors or are self referrals, who join the programme through marketing.

learners FroM hot spot areas wv10, wv11, wv14 anD wv4.

FunDeD by the skills FunDinG aGency, the proGraMMe aiMs to assist younG people FroM wolverhaMpton who are aGeD 16-19 years anD are classeD as neet

Learners are aged 16-19 but can be considered up to the age of 24 years of age if they have learning difficulties or a disability.

The programme consists of 2 phases and continues until December 2013. ● Phase 1 is a 6 – 12 Week programme focusing on a wide range of positive activities and opportunities to develop the learner’s personal and social development. Learners complete an Individual Learning Plan tailored to their needs. The Learning Plan is reviewed every 4 weeks for Non Vulnerable and every 2 weeks for Vulnerable learners.

Learners then commence working on Personal Development, Team Skills, Motivation, Employability Skills Training and Functional Skills – Maths, English and ICT (Entry 1 to Level 2).

(not in eDucation, eMployMent or traininG).

we have enGaGeD 5 Delivery partners to ensure a Diverse ranGe oF occupational traininG is available to our learners.

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Learners have the opportunity to take part in Work Tasters and Placement Activity. Learners also have outings to local places of interest (Museum, Art Gallery, The Think Tank, Baggeridge Park), this has proved very useful in Team Building, Motivation and Communication Skills as they take part in the planning of events. ● Phase 2 is a progression to Foundation Learning, Apprenticeship Training, College, Employment or Voluntary Work with pastoral Support supplied by staffs who have built up good relationships with the learner during stage 1.

there are 2 areas oF

non vulnerable

provision

Non Vulnerable learners are aged 16-19 years (up to 24 if learners have learning difficulties or disabilities) and are not engaged in Training or Employment. Steps to Work have engaged 80 young people during 2012- 2013 and of these 31 learners have progressed to positive progressions (Foundation Learning, Apprenticeship Training, Voluntary Work or Employment).

1 non vulnerable learners 2 vulnerable learners

Learners complete diagnostics, agree an individual action plan which is reviewed and updated every 4 weeks. Pastoral support is in place to ensure that learners continue with progression routes and do not return to the NEET register and staff visit or telephone learners on a regular basis to support them with any issues and learners are able to return to centre to complete unfinished work.

Placement hosts include British Heart Foundation, The Vintage Company, Age UK, Woodfield Infants School, Wodensfield Primary School, TOPPs Training and Oxygene. Learners who have engaged in placement activity have gained skills in Class Room Support, Retail and Warehousing, which has greatly improved learners confidence, motivation and work skills.

vulnerable Vulnerable learners are aged 16-19 years (up to 24 if learners have learning difficulties or disabilities) and include those who are at much greater risk than their peers of not engaging and are broadly defined as: ● ● ● ● ● ●

Learners with learning difficulties and /or disabilities Young offenders Young carers Substance misuse Teenage parents Certain ethnic minority groups (including Roma/Travellers)

Steps to Work have engaged 31 young people during 2012- 2013. 15 learners have progressed to positive progressions (Foundation Learning, Apprenticeship Training, Voluntary Work or Employment). Learners on this programme are heavily supported by tutors with progress reviews being more frequent and 1-2-1 support available at all times.

All learners engage in Functional Skills Training – Maths, English and ICT, Employability Skills and Soft Skills training to build motivation and confidence in preparation for their progression route.

Learners complete diagnostics, agree an individual action plan which is reviewed and updated every 4 weeks. Pastoral support is in place to ensure that learners continue with progression routes and do not return to the NEET register and staff visit or telephone learners on a regular basis to support them with any issues and learners are able to return to centre to complete unfinished work.

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trustees report 2013

accelerate programme The Accelerate programme, funded by Serco, is designed to engage and support 16- 18 year old people from within the Walsall area who are not in education, employment or training (NEET).

Referrals are made to the programme from Prospects, Supported Housing and JobCentre Plus amongst other agencies with a particular emphasis on young people living within the WS3, WS2, WS1 and WS10 areas of Walsall.

Each learner received an induction onto the programme and completed a robust initial/diagnostic assessment to identify, alongside any additional pastoral support required;

Regular reviews take place with the individual learner to monitor and discuss their progress and learners are supported by staff throughout their time on the programme.

Each learner attends a programme of activities aimed at assisting them to progress, for a minimum of 12 hours per week, which includes; ● Basic skills ● Personal and social skills ● Employability skills ● Confidence and motivation ● Team building and problem solving

● Social and personal barriers to learning and progression

● Developing a healthy lifestyle

● Skills for life needs

● Drug and alcohol awareness

● Current level of vocational skill

● Environmental awareness

● Preferred learning style ● Career aspirations and ambitions Each young person, with the aid of a tutor, produces an Individual Learning Plan which includes the learners preferred and most appropriate route back into education, employment or training, the activities they will undertake to achieve these aims and impartial information, advice and guidance from their tutor.

inspire programme

During 2012-2013 The Accelerate programme engaged with 45 young people, 39 of whom progressed to a positive progression which included Foundation Learning, Employment, Training or Apprenticeships.

Inspire Programme for 16-18 yr old NEETS We are delivering this programme on behalf of Inspire Futures Group.

We have been given an allocation of vulnerable young from Walsall and Wolverhampton who are aged 16-18 yrs and Not in Education, Employment or Training.

Programme delivery mirrors that of the Accelerate Programme in Walsall. Vulnerable learners include those with learning difficulties and/or disabilities, young offenders, young carers, substance misuse, teenage parents and certain ethnic minority groups including Roma/Travellers.

Each learner attends a programme of activities aimed at assisting them to progress, for a minimum of 12 hours per week. During 2012-2013 the programme engaged with 20 young people, 18 of whom progressed to a positive progression which included Foundation Learning, Employment, Training or Apprenticeships.

26

partner Delivery

The City of Wolverhampton College.

Course content includes Diagnostics, Target Setting, Progress Reviews, Safeguarding, Health & Safety, Equality & Diversity, First Aid, Budgeting, Healthy Eating & Cooking, CV Building and Employability Skills, Managing Conflict and Stress. Learners also attend excursions to Kinver Adventure Centre.

all partners Deliver

YMCA. Course Content includes Initial Assessments, Diagnostics, Coaching Sessions, long Term Goal Setting, Team Building, Personal Development, Drug/Alcohol Awareness, Arts and Drama and Work experience. Placements are available in Construction, Childcare, Catering, Gardening, Fitness, Customer Service, Retail and Business Administration.

Functional skills traininG – Maths, enGlish anD ict, eMployability skills anD soFt skills traininG. learners coMplete DiaGnostics, aGree an inDiviDual action plan

Learnfit.

Learnfit provides a Vocational Sports Programme for Post 16 Learners, the ‘Wanna be a Sports Coach’ programme provides an accredited programme for those that are passionate about sport. The programme is delivered flexibly between 1 and 3 days per week and contains variations of the following elements: BTEC Work Skills, L2 Award in Community Sports Leadership, FA Referees Course, Personal & Social Development, Assistance with employment and FE application, activities include Football, Basketball, Cricket, Athletics, Multi sports, Tennis, Badminton and many more.

which is revieweD anD upDateD every 4 weeks.

Heantun Housing.

Course content includes Functional Skills, Maths & English, Employability Skills, Personal Development, Carpentry, Basic Plumbing, Painting & Decorating.

pastoral support is in place to support learners who May have probleMs aDJustinG to their proGression routes.

Timken Training.

Course content includes Functional Skills, Employability Skills, Personal Development, Carpentry, Painting & Decorating, Brick Work, General Engineering, Mechanics, Hair & Beauty and Nail Art.

Inspire (Contract for Vulnerable 16-18 NEETS) In March 2011 Steps to Work were awarded a project to deliver NEET provision as a Sub Contractor to Inspire Group within the Wolverhampton area.

This programme consists of 2 phases and mirror images the Step Ahead Vulnerable programme. Vulnerable learners include those with learning difficulties and /or disabilities, Young offenders, Young carers, Substance misuse, Teenage parents and Certain Ethnic Minority Groups (including Roma/Travellers) Course content includes Diagnostics, Functional Skills – Maths, English and ICT, Budgeting, Drugs/Alcohol Awareness, Equal Opportunities, Personal Development, First Aid, Food Hygiene, Employability Skills and Work Tasters/Placement opportunities. Pastoral support is in place and progression routes include Foundation Learning, Apprenticeship Training, Voluntary Work and Employment.

Health and Social Care Health and Social Care is a small project funded by Skills for Care. The project is aimed at working with young people, aged 16 -18, who are not in education, employment or training to stimulate an interest in careers within the adult social care sector and to then support them to progress to a full apprenticeship in adult social care.

Each young person works with a learning mentor and completes an individual learning plan to tailor training to meet their needs. All learners will receive a Level 1 qualification in preparing to work in adult social care. Learners also undertake short courses such as level 1 Health & Safety in the work place, level 1 Food Hygiene, First Aid, Manual Handling and Infection Control. 11 young people have commenced this course.

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www.stepstowork.co.uk

case stuDies

Kate had moved from Poland to the UK in 2010 and started working as a carer in London. Kate found the cost of living too high in the South and relocated to Walsall with her partner in 2012.

Kate’s English language was excellent, she saw an advert as a voluntary interpreter at the Caldmore ‘One Stop’ Employment Shop and so applied for the role and was taken on to see the shops EU customers with language barriers every Thursday.

Over the few months of volunteering at the shop, Kate's skills had improved dramatically and now wanted to find employment within the advice and guidance field working with jobseekers as she felt she could share and support others with her own experiences.

volunteer turneD personal coach. kate, aDDs a new set oF skills to the steps to work teaM

Working with the Project team at Caldmore, Kate quickly settled in and became one of the team; although she did not have any recognised qualification in Advice and Guidance, she was able to learn and pick up the necessary skills required to fulfil a support officer role.

A position became available through Steps to Work, working as a trainee personal coach on the Work Programme at Townend House in Walsall Town Centre.

On the job training was just what Kate needed and so she applied for the role. Kate was successful at interview and started a week later.

Kate has now been working for Steps to Work for nearly a year and is enjoying working with a range of customers, finding others employment and utilising all the essential communication skills and experience she has.

Kate is also managing to pick up ad-hoc work at the Caldmore one stop shop, still supporting EU customers with their language barriers.

“without the support from caldmore and the team really working with me to support my transition to the uk and into walsall i wouldn't of been able to find work. i really enjoy my role and helping and supporting other people.” added Kate

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“steps to work has helpeD Me Get this Job anD boosteD My conFiDence no enD” anthony, walsall

Anthony had been out of work since June 2011 and needed help and support to get back to work. Anthony was given the motivation and encouragement he needed to get a foot in the door with local company, Scrap car buyers.

Scrap car buyers had several car part sorting vacancies which they had asked Steps to Work to source suitable candidates for. The company specialise in second hand car parts and have an online business selling and buying a range of parts for all types of vehicles.

Anthony’s personal coach put him forward for the vacancy and he attended an information session which told him all about the job, what the role entailed and pay rates etc.

Anthony went for an interview on the same day. With the skills and training that he had gained since being on programme at Steps to Work, Anthony was well prepared and as a result was successful at his interview and secured a work trial with the company.

Anthony needed additional support and help with financing his travel expenses and work safety boots to enable him to do the job. Steps to Work provided Anthony with a travel pass so he could get to his new place of work.

After the one week work trial with Scrap Car Buyers, Paul, the owner of the company was very pleased with how Anthony had been progressing and so offered Anthony a full time position.

Anthony has now signed off Jobseekers Allowance and is earning a full time wage enabling him to finally move out from his parent’s house and get his own accommodation. A goal that Anthony wanted after finding employment.

“i'm much happier now i have a job and i have been able to move out and get my own place. steps to work has helped me get this job and boosted my confidence no end” Anthony, Walsall

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trustees report 2013

case stuDies

sinGle MuM christine FinDs new traininG anD Gets a new Job! “i aM extreMely GrateFul For all the help anD encouraGeMent i have receiveD anD i aM really happy to now be in eMployMent with a reputable coMpany� christine, bloxwich.

30

One in 4 families are now headed by a single parent. Christine is a lone parent with 3 children ages 9, 13 and 15. Christine wanted to find employment now her children were growing up; she felt she had the time to take a part time job in the care sector.

Although Christine had no up to date relevant qualifications, Work on the Horizon were soon able to help her out and put her on the right path to success.

Christine visited Work on the Horizon after passing the high street one stop shop daily. Christine enquired about courses that would assist her into sourcing employment in the care industry.

It was identified that Christine would need to hold certificates in health and safety in the work place and emergency first aid as a starting point for her quest in employment. Work on the Horizon enrolled her straight away on the courses. After a couple of weeks, Christine passed both courses with flying colours.

Keeping in contact with Work on the Horizon, Christine informed the team that as he had achieved the courses they had placed her on, she had now been accepted onto a nursing course at Walsall College and also had found part time work with Accord Group as a Personal Assistant.

With the hands on experience she will gain through her work, she hopes that this will enable her to enrol at Wolverhampton College in 2013 and eventually lead to her main goal of working in Adult Nursing.

work on the horizon assists two custoMers into Full tiMe work!

Turnocks are a locally based electrical company, situated on Leamore Business Park. Over the years the company has progressed into manufacturing domestic and automotive electric and light fittings.

Work on the Horizon have worked with Turnock’s for many years, matching job ready unemployed customers to suitable, sustainable vacancies with the company and in addition providing local businesses with wage subsidies where appropriate.

Liam had been unemployed for 9 months before he walked through the doors of Work on the Horizon located on Bloxwich High Street.

Initially Liam was looking for support with his CV and so an appointment was made for him to have an informal chat with a project officer who went through his experience and qualifications to get his CV started.

GorDon stone, ManaGinG Director at turncocks coMMenteD; “thank you For all the help anD assistance in our

Liam had recently gained qualifications through Walsall College in electrical installation and needed to showcase his achievements through his CV. Within a few weeks a vacancy for an Electrical Technician/ Assembler became available through Walsall based electrical company, Turnock’s.

Liam’s CV was forwarded onto the Managing Director of the company, which was successful and he was offered a full time position with the company.

recruitMent neeDs. work on the horizon have been our port oF call For vacancies anD we will continue to work with theM where we can to place local people into local Jobs.”

Jane had been unemployed for 5 months before being supported by Work on the Horizon, who assisted Jane in writing her CV. The One Stop Shop then matched Jane’s CV against local vacancies.

With the same company, an internal sales administrator vacancy became available.

Jane’s CV was forwarded on to Turnocks and she was offered a full time position.

Through being customers at Work on the Horizon, both Liam and Jane have benefited from gaining full time work, having their CV’s professionally written, which reflected their new skills and experience.

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www.stepstowork.co.uk

case stuDies

craiG steps aheaD “everyone Just neeDs that bit oF DeterMination anD conFiDence to Make a better liFe For yourselF”

Craig (17) left school with grade Level 1 and 2 in Functional Skills, where he then enrolled into the Army with a view to joining as an infantry solider.

After completing 42 weeks of phase 1 training and graduating, Craig had an ankle injury which prevented him going any further which was a major blow to his future Army career. A few months past and Craig found out that he was going to become a father.

Worried he may become tempted into previous negative behaviour, Craig attended his local Jobcentre Plus where he was informed about the Step Ahead programme, a 12 week course to boost his confidence and motivation that would hopefully evolve into a future apprenticeship.

After feeling deflated from missing an opportunity in the Army, Craig was determined to find an apprenticeship in Health and Social care as he wanted to become a carer. Through support and guidance with his tutors, Craig was able to determine a stable career and gain extra advice on housing through income support and bursary payments to enable Craig to pay rent and find suitable accommodation for his young family.

Whilst on the programme, Craig learned a range of skills to help him move forward with finding employment and training, such as, CV building; confidence, motivation and team building skills; equality and diversity and environmental training.

Craig was supported in applying for a Diploma in Heath and Social Care Level 2 at Wolverhampton College. In addition to the course, a vacancy became available at a local care home and Craig was offered an interview. Craig was successful and has been working since the end of May 2012.

Feedback from the employer has been encouraging and given Craig the much needed boost of confidence he needed.

“if it wasn't for the step ahead programme pushing me forward into getting what i really wanted, i could of easily become distracted and got into trouble. everyone just needs that bit of determination and confidence to make a better life for yourself” craig, step ahead (non vulnerable) wolverhampton

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Josh is a cut above the rest

The Step Ahead programme, funded by the skills funding agency, aims to re-engage those not in education, employment or training (NEET) and offered a flexible pathway for young people with different needs, attributes and skill level.

Josh (18) from Wolverhampton, had attended a BTEC Level 2 course at Wolverhampton College where he completed one year of the course but became disillusioned with the course.

After deciding to leave the course and look for work, Josh found a post as a sales trainee at a local builder’s merchant. This did not work out unfortunately and Josh became frustrated in his search for long term employment and didn’t know where to go for training apart from back to college. And so, Josh like so many other young people, didn’t know where to turn and ended up signing on. Josh really disliked having to sign on at the job centre, he wanted to be independent, he wanted to be able earn money and gain long term training and he wanted to have control of his future.

Josh was very frustrated, having had bad experiences in the past with training, he struggled to stay focused and motivated. Josh admits in the past to being more focused on the social side of work, he needed to understand the importance of committing to a job and to still retain his admirable sense of humour.

“step aheaD Gave Me the skills anD support i neeDeD to Move into an apprenticeship.”

Josh, wolverhaMpton

The Step Ahead course gave Josh a focal point for his job search. Josh attended personal development and vocational sessions which helped him to develop his communication skills particularly in preparation for interviews. Working as part of a group helped Josh to understand how he could use his social skills to become a better team member.

Josh attended interview training which was important for Josh to gain employment. Having kept up the momentum of searching for opportunities Josh sought an apprenticeship vacancy in retail and applied. Josh went to his apprenticeship interview with a positive attitude and was prepared. Josh attended a range of training sessions which improved his communication skills the sessions included equality & diversity and substance awareness.

Josh was successful and is on a full time level 2 retail apprenticeship at The Lawnmower Hospital sited in Codsall and Wergs Garden Centre. He started his apprenticeship on 07/01/13.

His duties are mainly customer service, and he is also gaining experience in diagnosing machinery faults and some repair work.

Josh is enjoying his course and has a more positive outlook for his future. Josh hopes his apprenticeship will lead into a permanent post at the Lawnmower Hospital he says he has found a type of work in which he can progress.

Josh really enjoyed being part of a group, he liked engaging with other young people. Josh says he appreciated the way he was treated as an adult on the Step Ahead course this had not been his experience on pervious training. He liked being able to talk to staff and express his opinions, he says the course made him realise he can hold down a job.

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trustees report 2013

hiGhliGhts oF the year

chilDren in neeD While some staff opted to change the dress code to raise pennies and pounds for the cause, others dressed down and all staff donated £2.

The annual fundraising bake sale at Starting Point Recruitment also proved a big hit. Tasty delights cooked up by staff and went down a treat, as did the bake off competition. Staff donated prizes to the raffle (huge thanks to Village Hotel, Anne Ruddy, Asda, Katie Sohal, Holly Kinsey and Kate Vallance Clayton for donating prizes).

Tricia Hatton’s home grown aloe vera plants also proved to be a huge hit, boosting the Children in Need charity buckets.

once aGain staFF have shown their Generosity all in the naMe oF charity raisinG a whoppinG £513.68,

Caldmore ‘one stop’ shop staff made a fantastic effort with diwali celebrations and collecting from local businesses raising a massive £108.14 alone.

Steps to Work Wolverhampton also got involved with their learners and providers with a quiz adding over £80 to the final figure.

Darren O’Hare from Townend House who wore his onesie, admitted he got some strange looks on the way to work, but it was all worth it!

sMashinG last years total oF £419.70 by nearly £100.

“the staff and children have all enjoyed the day and look forward to doing the same next year.”

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Baking enthusiasts from Starting Point and Steps to Work entered the ‘Children in Need Bake off’ this year in addition to the cake sale held at Challenge Building. Tracie Glover, Katie Scott, Lucy Baker, Kate Vallance-Clayton, Crystina Woolley and Katie Sohal entered the competition with ex colleague and baker Roy Jones and Board Member, Sue Wood as judges.

Mindful that the cakes were going to be judged on quality and decorative skill, staff spent their time creating a range of exotic, unusual and fun Pudsey themed cakes.

The winner of the 2012 Bake Off was Katie Sohal who won 1st prize £10 Tesco voucher and was presented with a ‘Star Baker’ certificate for her Baileys and White Chocolate Cheesecake.

calDMore eiD celebration Staff at the Caldmore One Stop Shop recently celebrated the Muslim festival of Eid by wearing traditional Asian clothing, decorating the office and having a lunch consisting of a variety of curries and Indian and Pakistani snacks.

The period known as Ramadan was held in July and August. This is where Muslims fast during daylight hours to remember the time when the Qu’ran was revealed to the Prophet Mohammed. Two members of the team, Taz and Tahmeena fasted throughout the 30 day period, supported by their manager Heather who fasted during working hours.

At the end of the month, the end of fasting is celebrated by Eid, where processions and services take place and of course, a celebratory meal.

Eid at Caldmore was celebrated by all staff members, which include not only 2 Muslims, but a Hindu, a Sikh, a Christian and an Agnostic. The photo below shows that our team can not only enjoy themselves, but can show to our customers, partners and employers how people from different faiths and cultures can come together as one.

GettinG you to the FinishinG line - olyMpics 2012 torch relay The Olympic Torch came to Walsall on Saturday 30th June 2012. The Relay gave Walsall the chance to showcase its people and communities.

Mary Clarke (Steps to Work Board Member) carried the torch from Walsall Police Station down to Walsall Town Hall.

Semi retired, Mary was nominated by her husband for her achievements and experience in adult learning in Walsall and Birmingham. Mary has kept herself incredibly busy, active and healthy since retiring from the learning sector by becoming a School Governor, a Board Member at local training charity, Steps to Work and taking part in Walsall Council’s Walk on Walsall Project.

2 years ago, Mary took part in the London Moon Walk sponsored by Playtex in aid of Breast Cancer - a charity that is very close to Mary’s heart and rose over £1500 for the charity.

“I am very excited and thrilled to be taking part in such a prestigious one-off opportunity.

Carrying the torch will be a huge honour, bringing the Olympics into the community.

Not everyone is lucky enough to have the chance to go to London, but having the torch come through Walsall is an opportunity to get everyone involved” added Mary.

The Olympic Torch started its 70 day journey around the UK at Land’s End on 19 May 2012.

The Torch covered around 8,000 miles, carried by 8,000 torchbearers who all had the opportunity to carry the Torch for approximately 300 metres in their local town.

The Olympic Torch Relay passed through Bloxwich, Walsall and Willenhall.

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www.stepstowork.co.uk

our coMMitMent

to is0 9001

We are committed to using ISO 9001 to improve the service 1 to all our customers both internal and external on a continuing basis.

We do this by having a team of colleagues who are trained ISO auditors,

iso 9001 is an international stanDarD For a Quality ManaGeMent systeM.

planning a year-long cycle of audits on all aspects of Steps to Work activities and by reviewing, implementing and evaluating their findings.

Audits cover customer activities such as job search, training, reviews, customer satisfaction and complaints, as well as corporate functions

it senDs a clear MessaGe to

such as purchasing, communication and approving suppliers.

FunDers, partners, eMployees

The audit findings are reviewed by the Senior Management Team and

anD custoMers that we aiM

implemented across the company.

to achieve stanDarDs oF Quality that are respecteD anD recoGniseD

We consult with our customers on a regular basis to ensure we are meeting their expectations by holding monthly learner forums and asking for their feedback.

throuGhout the worlD We ensure that our management information systems are maintained regularly and reflect customer and quality requirements.

“effective and customer focussed processes are evident in all areas; good monitoring and measurement practices and the use of databases in creating and maintaining records was noted. it is clear that the system continues to mature and change to meet the organisation’s needs”.

36

ISO 9001

ISO 27001

Registered

Registered

Quality Management

Information Security Management

015

BS 25999 Registered 015

Business Continuity

015

bs25999 anD iso22301 business continuity ManaGeMent systeMs BS25999 is the British Standard and ISO22301 is the international standard for Business Continuity Management. We work towards the principles of these standards, as it provides the framework that enables Steps to Work to identify potential threats and the impacts to business operations that those threats, if realized, might cause.

We have completed Business Impact Analysis identifying our business critical activities, our recovery time objectives (how quickly we want to recover) and maximum tolerable period of disruption (how long disruption would be to significantly impact on business).

We have developed and tested a Business Continuity Plan to assist in the recovery of our business critical activities following any disruptions.

For Steps to Work having this framework provides us with some benefits ● Improving our resilience against disruption ● Maintaining an ability to manage uninsurable risks ● Developing a capability to manage business disruption ● Minimising consequences of unexpected disruptions ● A method of restoring our ability to supply our key products and services ● Protecting and enhancing our reputation and brand ● Demonstrating our ability to maintain delivery of our products and services

iso27001 inForMation security ManaGeMent systeMs ISO27001 is the international standard for Information Security Management. We work towards the principles of this standard, as it provides the framework that enables Steps to Work to assure itself that our information security measures are effective.

We implement our Information Security Management System through programme specific Security Plans. These are a requirement of a number of our programmes. There are overall policies and procedures in place that cover Information Security, Information and Communication Systems, Information Security Incident Management, Data Protection and Retention and Destruction of Records to name a few.

There are also controls for Physical and Environmental Security, HR security, asset management and access control.

For Steps to Work having this framework provides us with some benefits ● Customer Satisfaction – by giving confidence that their personal information is protected and confidentiality upheld ● Business Continuity – through management of risk, legal compliance and vigilance of further security issues and concerns ● Legal Compliance – by understanding how statutory and regulatory requirements impact on us and our customers; this reduces the risks of costly breaches ● Improved Risk Management – through a systematic framework for ensuring our records and information are protected from loss, theft and damage

37

trustees report 2013

our coMMitMent to environMental sustainability

38

iso 14001

By compiling a bulletin this raises an awareness amongst staff ensuring that adherence to environmental legislation is met. The 14001 team also ensure that signage is current at all its premises, encouraging staff to recycle, re-use, and recover.

ISO 14001 Registered

Environmental Management

The environmental team have raised awareness throughout the organisation in ways such as introducing an environmental bulletin which is sent out to all employees informing on what key issues the team are working on.

015

The team have also introduced a yearly schedule planner for the year, each month having a process to review. This can range from Environmental Aspects and Impacts, Significant Aspects Register, Review of audits that have been carried out and evaluation of compliance.

The 14001 process has been of great benefit to the organisation, and shows the commitment of both the organisation and its employees to environmental sustainability.

Steps to Work (Walsall) Ltd is committed to environmental sustainability and values the environment by monitoring the environmental impacts of its programmes, projects and services.

Steps to Work recognises that the environment is a major factor in determining the quality of life throughout the areas in which it operates. It cannot be treated in isolation as it impacts upon, and in turn is affected by many other equally important social and economic issues.

The organisation shows commitment to the prevention of pollution and compliance with legislation and other relevant requirements to which the organisation subscribes, also giving due consideration in the decision making processes to the environmental impact of new proposals as well as the social and economic impacts.

The organisation enhances employee and participant awareness of environmental issues and policies through training programmes encouraging customers to take part in projects whilst on programme.

Steps to Work encourage reducing energy consumption by strengthening the commitment to energy conservation. Employees are encouraged to turn off electrical appliances when not in use and to turn off lights if adequate lighting is sufficient or when rooms are not in use.

The company encourage the use of recycled materials and the recycling of waste at each of its premises. Steps to Work also show commitment to reducing its carbon footprint by encouraging walking, cycling, and the use of public transport by staff, and also car sharing if meetings are being held at the same venue with numerous employees being in attendance at the same meeting.

The company promotes measures to discourage waste, to recover, re-use and re-cycle waste materials and to ensure that the remainder is disposed of responsibly. Also ensuring that due consideration is given when purchasing new resources to the energy saving measures available within products.

Environmental objectives and targets are set and reviewed to monitor the effectiveness of the environmental management system through meetings of the senior management team supported by an internal audit team.

The organisation also has published an environmental policy which is available to the public on the website.

Each month a team of environmental representatives meet to discuss issues, and concerns and legislative requirements and review of key performance indicators.

39

www.stepstowork.co.uk

“Getting the job at amazon has given me a purpose, i'm happy to be working and getting my life back on track”

paul, (57) walsall.

eMployer enGaGeMent

Amazon, the US-based online retailer, officially opened a new distribution centre in Rugeley, Staffordshire in September 2012 creating 600 new jobs.

Steps to Work’s employer response team have been exceptionally busy over the last few months, securing jobs for local Work Programme customers across the EOS and 3SC contacts in Walsall. Amazon have taken on packers at its new distribution centre, by taking advantage of Steps to Works free employer services; increasing their workforce, by sourcing local unemployed people.

Paul, (57) had been unemployed for nearly 2 years. Having gone through a very difficult time, having recently got divorced which had led to anxiety and depression. This resulted in Paul losing his last job and also his home. Feeling very low and unmotivated, Paul desperately wanted to find a job to enable him to get his life back on track.

Paul attended the Work Programme at Steps to Work, once a week by taking part in job search training, giving Paul the skills he needed to get back to work. Paul attended an Employability course at the Walsall one stop employment shop which helped him with interview techniques, CV building to gain a certificate in Employability skills. In addition to help outside the Work Programme, Paul booked an appointment with the Money Advice service to help Paul get his finances on track.

The employer response team had been working closely with Amazon in the recruitment process of the new vacancies. Paul’s personal coach put him forward for the role. During the interview, Paul was tested for drug and alcohol use as part of the screening process, where he was successful. Paul is now working for Amazon and is feeling much more confident in getting his life back on track.

Catherine McDermott, Amazon UK director of operations; “We look forward to welcoming a good number of new faces to our centres [and] welcoming back temporary employees who join us every year. We are a company in growth and when we have permanent positions to fill, it’s the top performing temporary employees we look to.”

40

through the ‘multi-agency’ approach of Darlaston Jet and their network of partner organisations, the one stop employment shop have been able to place an apprentice seeking employment with a local organisation, who have been considering employing a young trainee

Darlaston JET were contacted by Craig, a Regeneration Officer at Walsall M.B.C. ‘Walsall Works’, to see if there were any local Sports Clubs who may be interested in offering an apprenticeship.

Walsall Council have a cohort of young people who have recently completed a sports related course through Walsall Adult and Community College, and require a job opportunity in the health and fitness sector.

Darlaston JET contacted Sprintz Health Club Director Mr. Dave Lepper; who had previously recruited two senior members of staff through Steps to Work and Darlaston JET. Dave knew exactly the type of person he was looking for at his health club and stated if Steps to Work could find Sprintz an individual of a high enough calibre, he would offer them the right opportunity.

The standard of interviewees were very high, but the one who particularly impressed Dave was Declan. Declan had studied sport, Maths and English at Walsall College but found himself unemployed for almost a year after he finished his studies. “There was just not the work out there for me” commented Declan.

In order to improve his employment chances, Declan attended Walsall Adult Community College, for a Pre-Apprenticeship Level 1 Sports Foundation course. During the interview he impressed the panel with his all round knowledge, personality and commitment.

After three months in the role Declan said; “The job is very varied and gives me the opportunity to use not only my sports qualifications, but also to learn how to deal with members of the public and suppliers. The staff have been really supportive and I enjoy the atmosphere here at Sprintz”.

Dave added; “Declan has proved to be an excellent choice, he has settled in very quickly and gets on well with both staff and customers. I would like to thank Darlaston JET and Craig from ‘Walsall Works’ who provided valuable information regarding subsidies as well as an excellent candidate”.

41

trustees report 2013

Darlaston enterprize zone FirMs line up to Move on Darlaston enterprise zone brinGinG new Jobs to the area. leaDinG businesses are alreaDy inQuirinG about MovinG on to the new Multi-Million pounD Darlaston enterprise zone, which will create new Jobs in the area by 2015

Pioneered by the last Conservative government, Enterprise Zones are now back in vogue as a way of kickstarting local economies and helping to create new private sector jobs when the public sector is still shedding staff.

The new breed of local Enterprise Zones, which are in the gift of the government, offer companies moving in, many incentives not available elsewhere.

“17th October saw over 150 organisations meet to network and find more information on how the new multi-million pound Darlaston Enterprise Zone will benefit their organisation, which will create new jobs in the area by 2015”, Walsall Council bosses said.

Local organisations, Z.F. Lemforder, Regent Engineering, Cougar Monitoring and Bonner Studs exhibited their businesses at Darlaston Town Hall, showing their support for the Enterprise Zone. Alan Shaw, Director of Regent Engineering added; “I have been a member of Daralston Business Park for 25 years and am really encouraged by the prospect of the enterprise zone and what it will bring, such as new companies, expansion of organisations and business opportunities.

This is a big incentive and a positive move by the Government in the current economic climate, ultimately bringing jobs into Darlaston.”

The site, which includes the former IMI James Bridge copper works, was declared an Enterprise Zone by the Government earlier this year, along with the i54 site on the border of Wolverhampton and South Staffordshire. The zones offer relaxed planning laws, a business rate holiday and superfast broadband to companies. Jaguar Land Rover has already signed up to the Wolverhampton site. The Darlaston site was chosen due to its excellent transport links with the M6.

The enterprise zone in the Black Country is one of 24 in England that also offer businesses tax incentives. Darlaston JET hope to play a large part in engaging with new organisations, seeking opportunities and working with the new companies that come into the Enterprise Zone.

The prospect of increased job opportunities is great news for Jet customers. Steve Pearcey, Darlaston JET added; “The interest shown in the Darlaston Enterprise Event and the feedback we have received since then shows that the outlook for Darlaston is positive and it will continue to improve. It was significant that a number of businesses from outside the Darlaston area attended the event and also how many were interested in using Darlaston JET for future recruitment of staff.”

42

brinG a buDDy to breakFast

After the success of the previous employer breakfast held last year, a second employer breakfast meeting was held at Townend House on 1st April 2013.

Presented by members of the Steps to Work Board, Carole Wildman (Chair), Pat Newland (Relko) and Ravinder Sahota (Kall Kwik). The exclusive breakfast meeting introduced Riz Hussian (Assistant Manager) and Trevor Codner (Area Manager - Walsall) and saw employers from National Express, Logistic Apprenticeship Academy and SME Quick Fit Auto.

Employers where welcomed to Steps to Work and introduced to the services to employers from the Work Programme, One Stop Employment Shops and Starting Point Recruitment.

Employers where very enthusiastic with the tailor made, pre-selection training and extensive pre employment training that was available to employers across the Black Country, and how Steps to Work are responding to the needs of each employer and market when looking for candidates.

Newly joined Board Members and local employers, Pat Newland (Relko) and Ravinder Sahota (Kall Kwik) added to the networking meeting by including information on their business and how their relationship with Steps to Work have supported them over the last 12 years of operation.

Ravinder Sahota added; “We want to encourage local businesses to invest in local, seeing what calibre of staff are available locally to us, building trust and relationships with businesses and making a commitment to overcome the economic downturn, ensuring future growth and prosperity for Walsall. I would encourage employers and those looking for employment to take a look at the website to see how Steps to Work have developed people and supported them to a better future.�

43

www.stepstowork.co.uk

Financial review coMMercial traDinG activities Mainly coMe FroM the incoMe GenerateD throuGh our subsiDiary coMpany, startinG point recruitMent.

Income is derived from either service delivery or from payments against specific outputs (mainly jobs, sustainable jobs and qualifications).

Many of the changes over the past year have been a move away from a cost replacement model of funding, where we were paid for delivering a service with outputs, to payment upon achievement of outputs.

net MoveMent oF FunDs During the period, the charity continued to comply with FRS17; this has meant the pension reserve has increased from £1,375,000 to £1,658,000

total FunDs at year enD all oF our Grant incoMe coMes FroM service level aGreeMents/ contracts within the public sector.

Restricted funds at 31 March 2013 £27,389 compared to £55,392 in 2012, and unrestricted funds are £1,327,242 compared to £1,114,667 in 2012.

Grant incoMe All of the grant income comes from either service level agreements or from grant agreements within the public sector. Income is derived from expenditure incurred to support local people with up skilling or in improving their aspiration to secure sustainable employment.

resources expenDeD Total resources expended during the period have increased due to the activities of the trading operation – Starting Point Recruitment.

net incoMinG resources An increase had been seen in the net incoming resources due to the activities of the trading operation – Starting Point Recruitment.

44

Facts & statistics

These charts show the background of customers who have used Steps to Work services within the boroughs of Walsall and Wolverhampton combined, in the financial year 2012- 2013.

The breakdown of the unemployed by their own definition, assisted by Steps to Work is detailed by; Ethic Origin, Age, Gender and Disability.

ethnic oriGin 4.54% 0.55% 5.02% 1.62% 3.85% 2.87% 0.43% 2.10% 0.53% 0.26% 0.43% 0.07% 2.44% 1.03% 71.29% 0.45% 2.53%

Indian Asian or Asian British Other Asian or Asian British Pakistani Asian or Asian British Bangladeshi Black or Black British Caribbean Black or Black British African Black or Black British Other Mixed White and Black Caribbean Mixed White and Asian Mixed White/Black African Mixed Other Chinese Not known Other White British White Irish White Other

GenDer 58% 42%

Male Female

aGe 34% 53% 13%

Under 24 25-49 50+

Disability 94% 5% 0% 1%

No Disability Disability Prefer not to say Not known

45

trustees report 2013

suMMariseD accounts

Steps to Work (Walsall) Ltd (A company limited by guarantee) Consolidated statement of financial activities (incorporating income and expenditure account) Year ended 31 March 2013

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Trusteesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Statement These summary financial are not statutory financial statements. that contained financial statements is taken from the audited statements

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financial statements for the year ended 31 March 2013 and includes details relating to both the Consolidated Statement of Financial Activities and the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The full financial statements were approved and signed by the Trustees on 19 September 2013 and will soon be submitted to the Charity Commission and to Companies House. They received an unqualified audit

report and copies can be obtained from Steps to Work (Walsall) Limited.

Signed on behalf of the Trustees:

Carole Wildman, Chair 19 September 2013

46

Steps to Work (Walsall) Ltd (A company limited by guarantee) Registered number: 03738249 Consolidated balance sheet as at 31 March 2013

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Independent Auditorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Statement to the members of Steps to Work (Walsall) Ltd We have examined the summary financial statements of Steps to Work (Walsall) Ltd for the year ended 31 March 2013 which comprise the Consolidated Statement of Financial Activities and Consolidated Balance Sheet.

Respective responsibilities of Trustees and auditors The Trustees are responsible for preparing the summarised Annual Report in accordance with United Kingdom Law. Our responsibility is to report to you our opinion on the consistency of the Summary Financial Statements within the Summarised Annual Report with the Full Annual Financial Statements and the Trustees' Report, and its compliance with the relevant requirements of section 427 of the Companies Act 2006 and the regulations made thereunder. We also read the other information contained in the Summarised Annual Report and consider the implications for our report if we become aware of any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the Summary Financial Statements.

Our report has been prepared pursuant to the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 and for no other purpose. No person is entitled to rely on this report unless such a person is entitled to rely upon this report by virtue of and for the purpose of the Companies Act 2006 or has been expressly authorised to do so by our prior written consent. Save as above, we do not accept responsibility for this report to any other person or for any other purpose and we hereby expressly disclaim any and all such liability Basis of Opinion We conducted our work in accordance with Bulletin 2008/3 â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;the auditorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s statement on the Summary Financial Statements in the United Kingdomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; issued by the Auditing Practices Board.

Our report on the charity's and groups full annual financial statements describes the basis of our audit opinion on those financial statements and on the Trustees report.

Opinion In our opinion the Summary Financial Statements are consistent with the Full Annual Financial Statements and Trustees' report of Steps to Work (Walsall) Limited for the year ended 31 March 2013 and complies with the applicable requirements of section 427 of the Companies Act 2006, and the regulations made thereunder.

Dains LLP Statutory Auditor and Chartered Accountants. Fort Dunlop, Birmingham, 19 September 2013.

47

www.stepstowork.co.uk

risks anD opportunities risks The Trustees have identified four main areas of risk which it considers the group are exposed to: ● Damage to the companies’ reputation ● The availability of resources to enable an effective and efficient service delivery ● The Health, Safety and welfare of the Trustees, staff and customers ● The changes in local, regional and central government policies on worklessness and skills.

Damage to the company’s reputation: The reputation of the company is of great importance to the Trustees and the Trustees have indicated that they will act vigorously to protect its good name at all times. In support of the company’s commitment to open and honest relationships, Steps to Work have published their own code of ethics. The code covers the company’s policy statements and principals, which have been approved by and have the full support of the Board of Trustees.

We believe that our continued success depends on earning and sustaining the trust of, those we deal with – including customers, stakeholders, employees, business partners, funding partners and the broader community.

Behaving ethically through the actions of our employees and though the company’s decisions, Steps to Work are bringing together the company’s heritage and continues to be part of our future business development and is laid down within our corporate values.

The availability of resources to enable effective and efficient service delivery: The nature of the environment in which we operate, leaves the organisation vulnerable to changes and has adverse effects on our ability to plan in the long term, as many of the effects are not in our direct control. The Trustees have categorised the resource risk into three main areas, human resources, finance and fixed assets. Each of these have been risk assessed and where possible some actions developed to mitigate against them.

Human Resources - Within the business we need to have a flexible workforce which can undertake a variety of tasks that is dependent upon the customer group, and where the requirements of funding bodies remains a severe challenge. As an organisation, we have continued to develop our workforce through training and job shadowing to encourage multi tasking and personal development.

Fixed assets - The complete unpredictability to determine volumes has created endless issues with availability of appropriate fixed assets. Of particular concern has been office space where we have tried to negotiate flexible terms to our leases as the future can be uncertain. Leases take long periods to negotiate and some landlords want to place specific restrictions on our customer group. Planning for assets such as computers and printers are dramatically affected by volume changes and such assets cannot be activated instantly and once purchased are equally redundant when levels of customers fall.

The Health and safety of our workforce: The health, safety and welfare of the Trustees, staff and customers are, and will remain, extremely important to the organisation. This is demonstrated through the effective implementation of our Health and Safety Policies and Procedures.

As part of the ongoing developments in this area we ensure staff receive appropriate training in areas such as conflict resolution and dealing with aggressive behaviour. All aspects of a particular job are risk assessed and measures put in place to reduce or remove risks where possible.

Changes in local, regional and central government policies on skills and worklessness: The changes in local, regional and central government policies on worklessness and skills are an inherent part of our business and one which we have had to deal with since incorporation. Many of the changes have required us to change the way in which we deliver our services, the number of staff we employ and the accommodation we need as well as updating or replacing the resources we require.

National changes have been more prevalent than ever before during the past twelve months with the change in Government. The coalition has cancelled Flexible New Deal in favour of their flagship Work Programme. The Department of Work and Pensions has lengthened the programme length for individuals, they have stretched the time which customers must be in employment to claim outputs but have provided more flexibility in the delivery.

The impact upon organisations such as ours is to cause cash flow concerns in the initial years but hopefully more potential later to earn more through our success. Government have also made it clear through their contracting arrangements that they intend to offer larger contracts to fewer contractors moving some of the risk and some of the opportunity to larger national providers who may wish to subcontract some of the delivery.

We have maintained a core staffing element and have developed several relationships with employment businesses through our subsidiary Starting Point Recruitment, to maintain a supply of associate workers and sub contractors who can provide as required to meet the needs of the business.

We have seen changes at a regional level with the closure of the regional development agency Advantage West Midlands and a change to more capital based projects rather than their revenue funded provision in the community.

Financial Resources - The business has managed to maintain a healthy level of financial resource to support its service delivery. During the past five years we have seen a greater emphasis being placed on output related funding and the timeframes by which sustainable employment is measured continue to grow longer creating increased cash flow concerns.

Those contracts that remain “cost recovery” are becoming shorter and less available placing different constraints on the development and delivery of the programmes.

As an organisation we have had to develop and adjust to these changes and have developed strategies that aim to minimise the impact and maximise the potential that such changes can bring to the organisation and its delivery partners. With each change risk occurs, but the trustees and senior management team have adopted a proactive response to risk management and all potential new ventures are risk assessed before we agree on our response.

These risk assessment procedures have resulted in us leading where we believe we are able to and working with others as a delivery partner where we believe the risk to ourselves is too great.

48

opportunities During the past twelve months opportunities to develop our services have been limited although in the final quarter there appeared to be more evidence that the DWP and SFA were beginning to provide tendering opportunities in the area.

Previously we have take the decision on such as Work Programme that the risk as the top tier provider with the change in funding, the change in contract and the cash flow requirements would pose a greater risk to the organisation and we were happy to be considered by some as a potential sub contractor.

The decision however did not mean that we would not wish to be a ‘Prime or First tier’ contractor where we believe we can develop suitable delivery models without excessive risk and we continue to develop our systems and procedures to enable this to happen should a suitable opportunity arise.

Investment policy: The nature of our work remains funded through a retrospective model which requires high levels of cash to support our staffing and sub contracting arrangements. The funding model has lead to the development of short term investments managed by the charity’s bankers in areas which are low risk, but therefore deliver low returns.

Recently the trustees have set up a new investment group that will look at the companies’ balances and determine where money can be placed and what level of risk is appropriate. The continuing problems in the Global economy and within the financial sector causing the low levels of interest payable have seen extremely low returns which we need to examine and improve.

Reserves policy: The company has set out its reserves policy in response to its market. The income we receive from our Service Level Agreements and contracts is retrospective and therefore requires us to keep the majority of our reserves in unrestricted general funds. This is so that our expenditure profiles can be met.

During the financial period 2012/2013, our unrestricted reserves have increased by £212,575.

During the finacial period 2012/2013, our restricted reserves have decreased by £28,003 due to a depreciation of fixed assets.

During 2012/2013 changes within the economy and the volatile money markets have seen our pension liability increase, as a result of the increased deficits being reported in the final year of the three year valuation period an increase in the amount of reserves set aside has been required. Unrestricted reserves to cover our pension liability managed by West Midlands Local Authorities have increased by 20.58% During 2013/2014 a full fund valuation due will be undertaken which will be based on the financial position in 2014 and will reflect any changes in staffing numbers which will see further movements but provide a more up to date appraisal.

The trustees have agreed that it would be prudent to ensure that certain funds are restricted to meet future development and replacement costs and in 2013-2014 the IT equipment will be replaced therefore funding reserved to undertake this will be released from the balance sheet as the corresponding depreciation is met in future years.

49

trustees report 2013

the Future the Future For steps to work neeDs to incluDe the DevelopMent oF a Diverse portFolio which enables us to Deliver a ranGe oF services to our current anD Future custoMers. recently we have seen MerGers anD acQuisitions within the sector with Dwp priMes takinG over sMaller proviDers or reachinG aGreeMents to work toGether with other priMes to Deliver over Greater areas.

50

Movements of this kind will continue as some of the larger providers seek to build upon their contract base and widen their specialist delivery models.

Steps to Work has two potential options; develop and grow or be subsumed into another provider. Either way the future must be in diversity and growth looking at larger geographical areas and new delivery models to enable us to provide services across the whole spectrum of our customer base.

Our success to date has been built upon sound financial and operational processes which will enable us during these volatile economic times to develop and evolve operational models that will make the business fit for purpose and meet the foreseeable challenges that we face through political, economic, social and technological changes.

Work has begun on developing our IT infrastructure to ensure that it is fit for the future, consultants have recently completed the scoping exercise and we should be in a position to implement a new IT delivery system within the financial year 2013/2014. The annual development of our Self Assessment Report and the work on each element of our development plan is moving us closer towards our goal of becoming recognised as an excellent provider in the future.

The recognition of Investors in Diversity, our IIP status the commitment to ISO 9001: 2008 quality and ISO 14001:2004 environmental award along with the work towards BS25999 Business continuity has established procedures and processes that show our commitment to the development of excellence.

We intend to continue with the development of our partnerships both as a lead contractor and as a sub contractor in the areas we operate, we will build relationships with larger providers, who undertake the management of contracts as well as some of the delivery in support of the Governments current agenda of having fewer but larger contracts.

We will grow our role locally to develop holistic solutions that can assist local people reach their employment and skills goals building upon the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;One Stopâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Employment shop principles explained throughout this report.

By developing the holistic approach to the needs of individuals, businesses and families in the area we will be able to bring greater economic benefit to the area and support the local, regional and national agendas on developing the workforce.

partnerships & FunDinG partners

Steps to Work gratefully acknowledges the financial support it has received from the following organisations and funding streams: ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

TBG Learning EOS 3SC Inspires Future Group Department for Children, Schools and Families Department for Communities and Local Government Department for Work and Pensions European Social Fund European Regional Development Fund Skills Funding Agency Serco Walsall Council Working Neighbourhoods Fund (WNF)

proFessional services Auditors Dains LLP Third Floor, Fort Dunlop, Fort Parkway, Birmingham, B24 9FD Bank National Westminster Bank PLC Park Street, Walsall, West Midlands, WS1 1ER Insurance D E Ford Insurance Brokers Ltd Poppleton Grange, Low Poppleton Lane, York North Yorkshire,YO26 6GZ Solicitors HCB Solicitors Limited 20 Lichfield Street, Walsall, WS1 1TJ 51

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Head office: Challenge Building, Hatherton Road, Walsall. WS1 1XS Tel: 01922 627555 Fax: 01922 622133 Walsall: Townend House, Third Floor, Townend House, Park Street, Walsall. WS1 1NS Tel: 01922 651870 Fax: 01922 651879 Wolverhampton: First Floor, St Johns House, St Johns Square, Wolverhampton. WV2 4BH Tel: 01902 719910 Fax: 01902 719915

‘One Stop’ Employment Shops Work on the Horizon: 1 Queens Parade, High Street, Bloxwich, Walsall. WS3 2EX Tel: 01922 496555 Fax: 01922 408589 Darlaston JET: 40 King Street, Darlaston. WS10 8DE Tel: 0121 526 6238 Fax: 0121 568 3848 Walsall ‘One Stop’ Employment Shop: Rear entrance Challenge Building, Hatherton Road, Walsall. WS1 1XS Tel: 01922 627555 Fax: 01922 622133 Caldmore ‘One Stop’ Employment Shop: 14 Caldmore Green, Walsall. WS1 3RL Tel: 01922 720114

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Registered Office: Challenge Building, Hatherton Road Walsall. WS1 1XS. A Company Limited by Guarantee I Registered in England No: 3738249 I Charity Registration No: 1100403