Finding stable, safe work can be a challenge for modern slavery survivors, many of whom have never known anything but exploitation.
That's why, seven years ago, Causeway, with the support of the Co-op Group, set up Bright Future, a scheme that helped fast track survivors into jobs.
The success of Bright Future led to it becoming an independent Co-operative, and is now launching the UK's first careers platform just for modern slavery survivors.
This is a milestone in the delivery of the scheme, as it will allow more modern slavery survivors from across the country to access safe employment with companies who have positions specifically set aside for them.
The Bright Future Co-operative careers website will allow businesses to post accessible job adverts for modern slavery survivors to apply for. The businesses will be provided with full training, and will be supported by Causeway and Bright Future Co-operative throughout the onboarding process and during the first stages of employment.
Companies currently involved include Currys, Morrisons, Pilgrim’s UK, Greencore and the Co-op.
Amy Bond, Causeway’s Chief Operating Officer and Bright Future Co-operative Board Member, said: “Bright Future Co-operative are extremely excited to be launching this careers website, to enable more survivors to enter safe employment, as they rebuild their lives, and take back control over their futures. We have found that moving into paid work can be transformational for survivors on their recovery journey. This innovative new recruitment platform will be managed by Causeway, and we are encouraging UK-wide companies, which have a commitment to tackling modern slavery, to consider partnering with us to advertise their roles, as they look to diversity their workforce and empower some of the most marginalised and vulnerable people in our society.”
Ian Siddons, HR Partner at Greencore and Bright Future Co-operative Business Member, added: “I knew we had someone that wanted to change their lives and was very motivated to start working with us, and knowing our team, I knew we would have the right environment to help. By the end of the initial placement, she has grown so much more in confidence and stronger in her communication. She now fits in well with our culture, and is comfortable asking questions. She is an excellent employee, and we can't wait to welcome our next person.”
*Aisha, a modern slavery survivor who was placed into employment with the Co-op through Bright Future Co-operative, said: “I met with the manager, and then he called me to come and get my uniform. I was so happy. After two weeks there was £200 in my account. I couldn’t believe it. Such joy! I bought myself a nice dinner and some clothes. My job became permanent. I knew nobody could take it from me. I was kept away from people for seven years. I felt ashamed for a long time. Now I feel blessed. Working at the Co-op gives me confidence.”
The careers platform is being supported by former anti-slavery commissioner Dame Sara Thornton, who will be taking part in a special webinar to kick off the launch of the careers website on Thursday 20th June, 2024. The webinar is free to attend, and will be of particular interest to businesses considering getting involved, and organisations looking to refer modern slavery survivors to the platform.