by Kieron McCarthy | Jan 13, 2025
Location – Belmont Business Park in Durham
Join Us at The Fed!
The Federation of Independent Retailers (The Fed) is Europe’s largest independent retail trade organisation, representing approximately 12,000 independent retail stores and 9,500 individual members across the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland. We are dedicated to supporting independent retailers by providing resources, advocating on their behalf, and offering exclusive benefits to our members. As an organisation, we strive to make business easier for our members, helping them save money, increase profits, and access valuable services. By joining The Fed, you will become part of a dynamic team focused on improving the livelihoods of independent retailers and shaping the future of the retail industry.
Who We Are
The Fed is a leading trade organisation that works to support and promote the interests of independent retailers across the UK and Ireland. With a membership base of thousands of retailers, we provide essential services and guidance to help members thrive in a competitive marketplace. Our mission is to make it easier for independent retailers to do business, save money, and succeed through tailored support, exclusive deals, and expert advice.
Our Vision
We aim to be the go-to resource for independent retailers, ensuring they have the tools, knowledge, and support they need to run successful businesses. Our vision is to empower independent retailers, foster a strong retail community, and champion the interests of our members.
Vacancy Summary
Vacancy Title – Customer Service Apprentice
Apprenticeship Summary
As a Customer Service Apprentice at The Fed, you will engage with existing and potential members to provide high-quality support, answer queries, resolve complaints, and promote the benefits of membership. This apprenticeship will allow you to gain valuable skills and experience in customer service, while contributing to the organisation’s efforts to enhance the experiences of our members. You will be trained in using our internal CRM system, learning how to solve problems efficiently, and assisting in the recruitment of new members.
Job Description
- Provide excellent customer service to The Fed members, resolving concerns and complaints effectively.
- Use internal CRM system to keep members and stakeholders updated on progress.
- Identify opportunities to recruit non-members and retain existing members.
- Act as the first point of contact for members, liaising with suppliers to find mutually agreeable solutions.
- Conduct follow-up calls to ensure members are satisfied with resolutions.
- Actively promote membership benefits to ensure members get the most from their association with The Fed.
- Take ownership of personal development with support from the Contact Centre Team Leader and Manager.
Apprenticeship Standard Details
- Level: 2
- Delivery Model: Workplace
- Apprenticeship Duration: 12 months
- Closing Date: ASAP
- Paid Working Hours: 37.5 hours per week (includes breaks/lunch)
Skills & Qualifications
Skills Required
- Proficient in ICT (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Strong attention to detail
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Curiosity and a willingness to learn and develop within the organisation
Qualifications Required
- GCSE or equivalent in English & Maths (minimum pass)
Future Prospects
- Opportunity to progress into a full-time role with The Fed after completing the apprenticeship (subject to vacancy).
- Possibility of further education or training within The Fed at a higher level.
Other Considerations
- The contact centre operates from 07:00–17:00, and while starting at 07:00 is not mandatory, it is advantageous.
- Some weekend and bank holiday work on a rota basis will be required, as our contact centre operates 364 days per year.
Notes for Recruitment
We are looking for someone who:
- Works well in a team but is also confident working independently.
- Has a natural curiosity and a desire to learn and grow within the organisation.
- Finds fulfilment in helping others and is eager to make a positive impact through their role.
Main Contact
Andrew Williamson (Contact Centre Manager)
How to Apply
For further information or to apply for this role, please contact The Fed at:
Email: contactus@nfrn.org.uk
Phone: 0207 017 8880
by Joshua Felton | Jan 8, 2025
Inside Connections is a social enterprise committed to empowering individuals transitioning from custody, care, or the armed forces, as well as those in the community seeking a positive intervention. Through a combination of mentoring, training, and tailored support, we help people build sustainable futures.
Whether you’re looking for training, employment, or a pathway to independence, Inside Connections offers personalised support to help you achieve your goals.
Who We Are
Inside Connections works with individuals to create transformative change through training, mentoring, and sustainable employment opportunities. Our team is passionate about helping people overcome barriers and create meaningful, long-lasting change.
We focus on:
• Supporting people exiting custody, care, and the armed forces.
• Mentoring and tailored support for young people and adults.
• Providing semi-independent supported living for care leavers aged 16-18.
• Linking training directly to labour market needs for successful employment outcomes.
Our Mission – To empower individuals through support and training, leading to sustainable employment and positive life changes.
Our Vision – To make a positive impact on individuals, families, and communities.
Our Values: RAISE
• Respect – We’re kind and courteous.
• Accountability – We’re responsible.
• Integrity – We’re honest and trustworthy.
• Safety – We work safely and look after each other.
• Excellence – We strive to get better every day.<
Current Opportunities
Support and Training Programmes
Inside Connections provides labour-market-linked training programmes to empower participants with the skills, qualifications, and employability needed for success. Current programmes include:
• CSCS Card & L1 Health & Safety in Construction inc Environmental Sustainability
Duration: 5 Days | Location: Liverpool, UK | Price: Fully Funded
• Beauty and Beyond Programme
Duration: 10 Weeks | Location: Liverpool | Price: Fully Funded
• Telecoms & Civils Skills Bootcamp
Duration: 8 Weeks | Location: Sankey Valley Industrial Estate, Newton-le-Willows | Price: Fully Funded
• LVL Lash Lift & Brow Lamination Training
Duration: 1 Day | Location: Liverpool | Price: £100
• Gel Polish Training
Duration: 8 Days | Location: Liverpool | Price: Fully Funded
Support Services & Employment
• Prison Support: Offering through-the-gate services for individuals seeking positive change post-release.
• Mentoring: Personalised plans to support independence, goal achievement and sustainable living, for each learner that begins an IC programme.
• Recruitment Services: Collaborating with employers across the UK to place individuals in sustainable employment via our recruitment agency; our aim is to enable to make an impression, break barriers and secure long-term employment.
by Joshua Felton | Jan 8, 2025
VIY is a social enterprise dedicated to supporting young people by combining volunteering with trade and construction work experience. Through short-term, hands-on renovation projects at community venues, young people gain employability skills, professional mentoring, and City & Guilds accreditations.
Whether you’re NEET (Not in Education, Employment, or Training) or at risk of becoming NEET, our projects provide accessible and flexible opportunities to explore trade careers, develop employability skills, and boost your confidence.
Who We Are
At VIY, we help young people to unlock their potential by learning hands-on trade skills. By volunteering on projects that transform community spaces, young people not only develop practical construction skills but also enhance their teamwork, communication, and self-confidence.
Since 2011, we’ve supported over 15,000 young volunteers in gaining valuable skills and experiences that open doors to further training and employment opportunities in construction and beyond.
Our Vision for Young People
To inspire young people to build a better future by developing new skills, fostering resilience, and improving employability while making a tangible impact in their local communities.
Our Values
● We’re all about collaboration – we love working with like-minded people and organisations to achieve great things for young people and local communities.
● We’re flexible – we empower individuals to be their best and do their best work.
● We’re inclusive – we offer equal opportunities and a level playing field to everyone on our programmes, to suit different backgrounds and needs.
● We’re a passionate bunch – we really care about what we do and we’re driven to help our young people realise their full potential.
● We’re progressive – we’re a unique experience, constantly striving to deliver bigger and better experiences and impact for all.
Current Opportunities
Volunteer It Yourself Projects
Learners gain:
● Bite-sized volunteering opportunities to learn construction trade skills.
● Mentoring by professional tradespeople.
● Entry Level 3 City & Guilds trade accreditations (minimum 3 days).
● Employability workshops to build soft skills like confidence and teamwork.
● Support in exploring further opportunities in trades, including guidance toward CSCS cards.
Flexible Scheduling
Projects are tailored to accommodate learners’ existing commitments, with support for travel and lunch where needed.
The VIY Experience
● Learn trade skills in a practical environment.
● Build confidence and teamwork skills with the guidance of experienced mentors.
● Complete short, flexible placements with support to find pathways to further careers in trades.
● Watch this 60-second video to see the VIY experience in action!
Volunteer and Collaboration Opportunities
VIY welcomes organisations and partners interested in engaging young people through practical, impactful experiences.
Benefits for Learners:
● Earn City & Guilds Entry Level 3 accreditations.
● Access employability workshops and further training support.
● Opportunities to connect with future employers and obtain a CSCS card.
Project Details, Locations & Dates
Kings Lynn, Norfolk
Venue: Springwood Family Centre
Dates: 6- 17 January
Scope: Build a shelter and play walls
Qualification: Entry Level 3, Carpentry
Eligibility: King’s Lynn/ West Norfolk residents, economically inactive/ unemployed
Venue: North Lynn Family Centre
Dates: 20- 31 January
Scope: Build outdoor planters and canopy
Qualification: Entry Level 3 City and Guild Carpentry
Eligibility: King’s Lynn/ West Norfolk residents, economically inactive/ unemployed
Venue: St Augustine’s Family Centre
Dates: 24 Feb- 7 March
Scope: Internal decoration
Qualification: Entry Level 3 City and Guild Painting and decorating
Eligibility: King’s Lynn/ West Norfolk residents, economically inactive/ unemployed
Southend
Venue: Garon Park
Dates: January 2025
Scope & Qualification: TBC
Location: Cricket Pavilion, Eastern Ave, Southend-on-Sea, SS2 4FA
Eligibility: Southend residents, economically inactive/ unemployed
Venue: Combat Academy
Dates: March/ April
Scope & Qualification: TBC
Location: 18-20 Southchurch Road, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 2ND
Eligibility: Southend residents, NEET/ risk of NEET
Gateshead
Venue: Teams Life Centre
Dates: 03/03/2025 – 14/03/2025
Scope: Redecorating the Sports Hall
Qualification: Painting & decorating / Health and Safety
Location: Askew Road West, Gateshead NE8 2PW
Eligibility: Gateshead resident
York
Venue: Hull Road Park
Dates: 13/01/2025 – 24/01/2025
Scope: Creating woodland paths and updating, repairing timber planters and composting units
Qualification: Joinery / Health and Safety
Location: Hull road park, Alcuin Ave, York YO103TQ
Eligibility: York Residents
Venue: Ad Astra
Dates: 10/02/2025 to 21/02/2025
Scope & Qualification: TBC
Location: Elvington Industrial Estate, Elvington, YO41 4AR
Eligibility: York Residents
by Joshua Felton | Jan 8, 2025
The Met is an award-winning live music and arts venue in Bury, UK, known for its diverse cultural programme and commitment to community engagement. It offers a wide range of opportunities, including for young people with care experience, to get involved in the arts, music, and more.
Our Offer for Care Leavers
We are committed to supporting young people with care experience by providing the following opportunities:
1. Access – Discounted Access to Shows: Care Leavers can access discounted tickets for events at The Met. Discount codes are available and no ID is required for booking. Just get in touch with our Box Office to access.
2. Participation – Free/Discounted Workshop Places: Care Leavers can join our arts workshops free or at a reduced cost, including opportunities for their children. To participate, contact our Engagement and Access Team at education@themet.org.uk.
3. Work Experience & Volunteering: Gain hands-on experience by working behind the scenes at The Met. We offer tailored work experience placements and volunteering opportunities to help you develop skills in event management, arts programming, and more. For details, email education@themet.org.uk.
Community and Arts Programs
The Met provides a range of creative programmes that encourage personal growth and skill development for a range of ages and experiences inlcuding:
• Holiday Activities and Food: Free arts workshops for children and young people in receipt of Free School Meals.
• Movers and Shakers: A movement workshop for children aged 1-5 and their grown-ups.
• Met Express: Our adults theatre company for anyone with a learning disability.
This is just a small snapshot of our broader offer which also includes other creative groups like Bury Youth Theatre and Metro Jazz for young people to develop talents in theatre and music.
by Kieron McCarthy | Jan 7, 2025
Join Us at Work’n’Diversity
Welcome to Work’n’Diversity! Founded by neurodivergent individuals, we are dedicated to bridging the gap between employers and autistic employees. Our mission is to spread awareness, provide essential support to both employers and autistic employees, and prepare the next generation of autistic individuals, including care leavers, to confidently enter the job market. Together, we can create inclusive workplaces where everyone can thrive.
Who We Are
Work’n’Diversity is committed to empowering neurodivergent individuals and creating inclusive workplaces. Our tailored support equips care leavers with the tools and confidence they need to succeed in their careers.
We focus on:
- Providing essential workplace skills through tailored workshops.
- Supporting care leavers with mentorship and career guidance.
- Advocating for inclusive workplace adjustments to ensure success.
Our Mission
To create a bridge between neurodivergent employees and inclusive employers, helping care leavers access meaningful opportunities and thrive in their careers.
Our Vision
To empower care leavers and neurodivergent individuals by fostering inclusive workplaces that celebrate diversity.
Our Values
- Inclusion: Embracing and valuing diversity in all its forms.
- Support: Providing tailored resources to empower individuals.
- Collaboration: Working together with employers and care leavers to achieve shared goals.
Current Opportunities
- Employment Workshops
Tailored sessions designed to equip care leavers with:
- CV development skills.
- Interview preparation.
- Guidance on navigating neurodivergent-friendly environments.
- Mentorship and Career Guidance
Access to experienced professionals who provide:
- Career advice tailored to care leavers and neurodivergent individuals.
- Ongoing mentorship to support personal and professional development.
- Assistance in discussing, creating and implementing learning support plans to help neurodivergent students succeed academically and transition smoothly into employment.
- Employment Advocacy
Support with:
- Disclosing neurodivergence at work or University.
- Navigating reasonable adjustments with employers.
Future Opportunities
- Work Experience and Internships: Flexible, neurodivergent-friendly placements within Work’n’Diversity to provide hands-on experience and build confidence.
Our Fees
At Work’n’Diversity, we are committed to making our services accessible while maintaining the quality and sustainability of our work. For care leavers, we are pleased to offer a 20% discount on all our products and consultancy services.
For tailored training sessions, we are happy to discuss and agree on a discounted rate based on the specific training requirements. This ensures the support we provide is customised to meet your needs while remaining cost-effective.
Additionally, care leavers can join our subscription service for just £10 per month, which includes access to our newsletter, a range of online resources designed to support their journey into employment and beyond, and priority booking on consultancy and training sessions.
If you have any questions or need further details, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re here to help!
