The benefits of supporting the employment of disadvantaged groups

This new report evidences the range of business benefits gained by companies engaging in Work Inclusion initiatives.

Businesses must not underestimate the power of initiatives such as Ready for Work. The pleasure our people get from helping someone change their lives is enormous and this translates into building a motivated and loyal workforce.

Research undertaken with companies engaging in Work Inclusion initiatives by supporting pre-employment training, offering work placements or employing people from disadvantaged groups shows solid evidence of the business returns.

Download the full report (389 kb)

Positive evidence of returns to business was found in four core areas:

• Employees and future workforce
• Brand value and reputation
• Direct financial impact
• Organisational growth

Findings from companies running Work Inclusion programmes

• 82% of companies reported that such initiatives improved the public perception of the company 
• Over 75% cited increased employee motivation and morale as a key benefit 
• Nearly 2/3 reported benefits relating to organisational growth such as winning tenders and developing new partnerships

Responses from employees volunteering with BITC's Ready for Work programme*, supporting homeless people and people at risk of homelessness into employment.

• 91% of Ready for Work volunteers reported improved relationship building skills 
• 81% saw improved Influencing / negotiation skills
• 94% reported an increased awareness of diversity
• 72% reported increased job satisfaction and 62% increased commitment to the companyhe research showed evidence of returns to business in the areas of employee development, brand value and reputation, direct financial impact and organisational growth.

*Ready for Work is a BITC programme that equips homeless people or those at risk of homelessness with the confidence and skills to re-enter the job market. It operates in partnership with local businesses, hostels and other agencies for homeless people to deliver pre-employment training, work experience placements and post-placement support. Click here to find out more about the programme, including how to get your business involved.