SCC, The Rigby Foundation and Generation UK shortlisted for Business Charity Award
SCC, alongside The Rigby Foundation and Generation UK, has been shortlisted in the Community Impact category at the Business Charity Awards 2026.
The nomination recognises a partnership focused on tackling barriers to employment and improving social mobility across the West Midlands, helping people aged 18 and above build the skills, confidence and opportunities needed to access sustainable careers.
At the heart of the initiative is a £600,000, three-year commitment from The Rigby Foundation, which enables Generation UK to deliver intensive skills bootcamps and employability support in high-growth sectors including technology, green energy, health and social care. SCC has strengthened the programme through direct colleague involvement, hosting employability days, sharing industry insight, providing mentoring and career guidance, and giving participants valuable exposure to the workplace.
To date the partnership has already supported more than 207 learners, with strong attendance, graduation and job outcomes helping to create meaningful change for people facing multiple barriers to work.
SCC colleagues have played an important role in bringing the partnership to life. Across a series of employability sessions, volunteers have helped participants with CV writing, interview preparation, application support and career advice, while also sharing their own personal career journeys to help build confidence and make the world of work feel more accessible.
The programme has also created stronger pathways into employment by connecting learners with real-world workplace experiences and by helping establish a practical pipeline for entry-level opportunities.
This shortlist reflects the value of combining charitable investment, expert training and employer engagement to deliver lasting impact in local communities.
“We’re incredibly proud to see this partnership recognised. By combining the commitment of The Rigby Foundation, the specialist expertise of Generation UK and the time and passion of SCC colleagues, we are helping create real opportunities for people who might otherwise be excluded from them. This is exactly the kind of local, practical impact that strong partnerships can deliver.”
Winners will be announced at the Business Charity Awards ceremony on Thursday 7 May 2026 in London.