Our Impact
Big Issue Recruit Impact
At Big Issue Recruit, we believe everyone deserves the chance to thrive in sustainable, meaningful work that delivers real, measurable social impact. Since our launch in September 2022, we’ve been connecting employers with people affected by poverty and inequality – building diverse teams while helping individuals gain confidence, skills, and long-term security.
Two years of impact at Big Issue Recruit
We’ve now supported 385 people facing challenges such as homelessness, long-term unemployment, or limited formal qualifications. Our goal isn’t just to connect candidates with jobs—it’s to give them the tools, resilience, and ongoing support to stay and thrive in work.
Between October 2023 and September 2024:
- 204 new job candidates were supported by our team
- 47 candidates were placed into employment, taking our total to 120 successful placements
- 150 candidates achieved our milestone ‘Work Ready’ status, bringing our total to 225
Our impact – Hollie’s story
When Hollie connected with us, she was looking for a fresh start – a chance to grow, rebuild her confidence, and find a job that matched her strengths.
With personalised support from our team and a partnership with employer C&C Group, Hollie didn’t just get a job – she found a place where she’s thriving.
What does ‘Work Ready’ mean?
Our ‘Ready to Work’ framework equips candidates with the skills, confidence, and stability they need to take control of their employment journey. It focuses on five core areas:
- Foundational – Housing, health and addiction support, citizenship, financial and digital inclusion.
- Essential Skills – Digital literacy, numeracy, communication, problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork.
- Employability Readiness – CVs and applications, building an online personal brand, work experience, and professional behaviour.
- Technical & Sector-Specific Training – Industry certifications (like CSCS cards), online courses (e.g., safeguarding), and sector-specific programmes (like SWAPs or barista training).
- Resilience & Confidence – Interview prep, self-confidence, and motivational coaching to help candidates aim higher and stay positive.
Building brighter futures
Our Job Coaches offer personalised support, helping each candidate move at their own pace towards long-term employment success. From building confidence to unlocking career potential, we’re proud to back people with the support they need to thrive.
We’re not just helping people find work – we’re working to break the cycle of poverty through diverse, resilient, and inclusive employment.
