In late December, Warren proudly hosted Jo Churchill, the Minister of State for the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), for a tour of their Brickfields Way facilities. The visit highlighted Warren’s commitment to championing and supporting young talent in the manufacturing sector and our collaborative efforts with the DWP to create employment opportunities for those furthest away from the labour market. Commitment to youth empowerment Warren has long been dedicated to nurturing young talent in the manufacturing sector. Our unwavering passion extends beyond conventional roles, offering work experience across various sectors, including administration, HR, and engineering. This commitment aligns with the broader mission of supporting the youth and creating a pathway for those seeking careers in diverse fields. Strategic collaboration with the DWP Collaborating closely with the DWP, Warren has forged vital connections with numerous employers in the area. As a committed supporter of the Kickstart agenda, the company not only provides multiple work trial placements but actively encourages other employers to embrace this initiative. Notably, Warren voluntarily took on the role of a Gateway employer, simplifying access to Kickstart for smaller companies and generously sharing HR resources to facilitate broader participation. Minister’s support and recognition Minister Jo Churchill was welcomed by Warren’s Founder Owner, Richard Bridgman, alongside Managing Director Will Bridgman and HR Director Estee Ross. The visit signified the importance of the partnership between Warren and the DWP. The company welcomes the Minister’s support in further developing this collaborative effort, reinforcing the shared goal of creating impactful opportunities for youth employment and professional development. Key figures and insightful discussions Jo had the opportunity to engage with both current and former apprentices, gaining valuable insights into the company’s commitment to skills development and mentorship. The visit also included a roundtable discussion over lunch, bringing together key partners pivotal to Warren’s community initiatives. Representatives from The Mason Trust and ICanBeA, Baxters Healthcare, Centurion, Boniface Engineering, and Peerless Plastics & Coatings contributed to insightful discussions on youth empowerment, employment strategies, and community engagement. DWP District Manager Julia Nix helped organise the event Julia Nix, the East Anglia District Manager for the DWP and who has recently been appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant for Norfolk attended the event, bringing with her a wealth of experience gained during her tenure in the Civil Service since 1983. Recognised as a Princes Trust Ambassador for over two decades, Julia was awarded an OBE in 2017 for her outstanding contributions to tackling youth unemployment in East Anglia. Diverse collaborations with key partnerships for social impact The roundtable included representatives from organisations like The Mason Trust, an organisation supporting young people in Suffolk and Norfolk, and companies such as Baxters Healthcare, Centurion, Boniface Engineering, and Peerless Plastics & Coatings. Each partner plays a crucial role in creating a collaborative network focused on building a thriving future for the community. Warren’s collaboration with DWP extends beyond traditional employment initiatives, encompassing projects like Thetford Modern Manufacturing Town, Thetford Partnership Action Group, and Thetford Business Forum. Additionally, their partnership with the High Sheriff of Norfolk, DWP, Norfolk Community Foundation, and Norwich Prison reflects a holistic approach to supporting ex-offenders, demonstrating the company’s commitment to social impact and community development. Warren’s dedication to youth empowerment and community engagement, coupled with strategic collaborations with the DWP and influential partners, exemplifies a model for creating positive social change. The Minister’s visit underscores the significance of such initiatives, emphasising the shared commitment to building a brighter future for young individuals and the broader community.
