Earlier this month, Cross Reach won the category “Making Change Happen” because of its innovative project “Get into Care with CrossReach” (in partnership with the Prince’s Trust) which offers young people a fast track into a career in Social Care.

The programme includes interview training, 1-on-1 coaching and a guaranteed interview at the end of the programme. As a result of this, six new members were recruited for CrossReach’s team and will continue to be supported in their professional development in line with the organisation’s ethos. Feedback received from participants was extremely positive, with many feeling empowered, motivated and changed after taking part in the pilot programme.

Amidst the ongoing vacancy in the social care sector, the recruitment partnership developed by CrossReach is a powerful example of how to relaunch careers in social care amongst young people. While the terrific award at the Scottish Social Services Awards stands out on its own, the small HR People Development team has made clear that the life changing difference experienced by the programme participants is their ultimate reward.

To read some of the participants’ stories and feedback, please visit CrossReach’s original publication.