Blue Badge Company shortlisted in Business In The Community’s Responsible Business Awards

Last night at St George’s in Bristol, we attended the Gala Dinner for the 2016 Responsible Business Awards, the most prestigious and rigourous awards championing responsible business at home and abroad. We were recognised for our Inclusive Employment Initiative in the Employment of Excluded Groups category, receiving shortlisted status! We pride ourselves on providing jobs and training to those who find it most difficult to access employment; over 40% of our workforce either has a disability or is a primary caregiver. Our Founder & Managing Director, Ellen Green, explains why our inclusive employment policy is a fundamental part of the business: “I really believe that a company is only as strong as the team behind it. The one thing that has driven me the most is the idea that business has a responsibility to be good for society and I’ve discovered that a rewarding, sustainable job can change someone’s life. I’ve seen it first hand and it’s the part of my company that I am most proud of.” Our Workroom Assistant, Tom, reflects on what his job means to him: “Like most people who are disabled or have gone through disabling circumstances, I have always wanted to contribute and be valuable. A Blue Badge Company placement through the outstanding services of Pluss has enabled me to train and become part of a truly dynamic team. I am satisfied that my contribution does make a difference and I am a vital part of making Blue Badge Company work. My case worker at Pluss was able to find a job that would fall within my experience and expertise. After an interview I got a phone call saying that they wanted me to start my placement and so it began. At times it was tough but ultimately it worked out really well. I have now been working at Blue Badge Company for two years.” Stephen Howard, Chief Executive, Business in the Community said: “We know that every day businesses contribute towards more resilient communities, stimulate local economies, help to create skilled and healthy workforces and tackle environmental challenges. This year’s Responsible Business Awards shortlist represents the very best of business. Celebrating their stories helps raise awareness of business as a powerful force for good.” The event last night was a great opportunity to meet other businesspeople who are doing their bit to make a real difference to their employees and society as a whole. We’re honoured to feature on the shortlist alongside Oracle, whose 'Mind Over Matters' campaign connects their workforce with wellbeing resources and mental health support, and Spirent Communications, who have launched a scheme within its Positioning Technologies Division to plug the tech skills gap and encourage a younger, more diverse workforce to take up science and technology jobs. You can read more about the awards on the Business In The Community website.