Step2Skills, the heartwarming force behind Hertfordshire’s career success stories, is thrilled to announce they are finalists for THREE awards for the esteemed Inspiring Herts Awards:
These recognitions shine a spotlight on their tireless efforts to uplift individuals and transform communities throughout the county.
For over two decades, Step2Skills has been a beacon of hope, evolving from the Hertfordshire Adult & Family Learning Service into a multifaceted hub offering diverse courses, workshops, and personalised employment support. Their rebrand in 2019 marked a turning point, expanding their services to address the unique challenges faced by residents on their journey to meaningful employment.
Team member Ruth Chumbley says:
“As our strapline says, “Prepare to succeed in Herts”, we firmly believe that with the right skills and support, every Hertfordshire resident has the potential to succeed in the county and we hope that the learning opportunities we offer allow someone to start on their journey to progression.”
Passion is at the core of Step2Skills’ mission. They firmly believe that every person in Hertfordshire deserves the chance to thrive with the right skills and support. Their commitment stems from a deep-seated desire to break down barriers and ensure that no one is left behind due to outdated recruitment processes or insufficient training opportunities.
While being hailed as the county’s ‘best kept secret’ is flattering, Step2Skills is determined to share their mission with a wider audience. Awards like the Inspiring Herts Awards offer a valuable platform to showcase their work and spread awareness of the life-changing opportunities they provide.
“Every day, we work with Hertfordshire residents who, through no fault of their own, are not getting the chance to progress and succeed in work or training as the ‘one size fits all’ recruitment process is not suitable for them”, continues Ruth “Their talents, skills and abilities are not given a chance to flourish as they cannot get through those initial stages of recruitment”
At Step2Skills, their work with local employers opens up a whole new realm of possibilities. From Insight Days, where participants can get a look inside the workings of a business, to Job Interview practice with an employer, which can help to allay fears and concerns, their network of supportive businesses is key to their success.
Step2Skills boasts a vibrant team of around 70 individuals, including teachers, mentors, employment advisors, and job coaches, all united in their dedication to supporting Hertfordshire residents. Their efforts are complemented by a network of volunteers who generously contribute their time and energy to empower learners and participants.
Among Step2Skills’ proudest moments is their Annual Achievement Awards, a summer event where they celebrate the triumphs of learners, participants, and their families. It’s a time to reflect on the impact of their work and to reaffirm their commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
“We thank all local businesses who support our work in promoting the benefits of an inclusive workforce. We encourage anyone who feels their business can contribute to get in touch with us.” says Ruth.
Looking ahead, Step2Skills is focused on securing funding to sustain their vital work within the Hertfordshire community. They actively seek out new funding sources and grants to continue their mission of preparing residents for success in Hertfordshire and beyond.
As finalists for the Inspiring Herts Awards, Step2Skills is on the brink of gaining further recognition for their outstanding contributions to the community. Their warm-hearted approach to empowerment and their dedication to fostering inclusive opportunities for all make them true hometown heroes, worthy of celebration and support.
Step2Skills sits within Hertfordshire County Council but all of their project funding comes from a variety of external sources, which currently includes the Department for Education and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. As a funding source comes to an end, they are always looking for new funding sources and grants to apply for, that allow them to continue the great work they do within the Hertfordshire community.
For more details on how Step2Skills can help, please click here
