Case Study

Speedy, sustainable and reliable: it’s what all broadband users are looking for. 
 
It’s also what those who have been out of work for many months hope for when it comes to support in finding jobs. 
 
Now, thanks to a successful relationship between Ingeus and mobile and broadband providers EE, that’s exactly what’s being achieved for jobseekers in the Midlands. 
 
The link-up between the two businesses has seen people on the Government’s Restart Scheme, which Ingeus delivers in the West Midlands on behalf of Serco, offered the opportunity of customer service contact centre jobs at EE’s Midland Regional HQ Snowhill. Since April last year 47 Ingeus jobseekers have found jobs with almost all of them still in post. 
 
The relationship, part of EE’s drive for greater equity, diversity and inclusion at work, has helped it to deliver on a major commitment to support the long-term unemployed. Through the Restart Scheme, the initiative has achieved an impressive 90% employee retention rate, demonstrating its effectiveness and impact. 
 
Recruitment that starts with Ingeus vetting candidates to ensure their suitability for the roles, and first stage interviews and screening held at its offices in Birmingham, has seen the time taken to select 24 candidates cut from 60 hours to nine. It has also led to a saving in recruitment costs. 
 
One of the first Ingeus jobseekers hired by EE through the Restart Scheme is Jessica. She started as a Billing Service Guide for the mobile network’s broadband services but her enthusiasm to grow her skills and find fresh challenges has seen her given new opportunities. 

She was offered the chance by the HR team to return to Ingeus to inspire other potential EE recruits to follow in her footsteps and has since been promoted to a new position as a Connections and Technical Guide. 
 

It’s a more analytical role, dealing with EE customers and digital network providers Open Reach, and the 22-year-old says: “I really love the investigation aspect of the role, with time to go away and find solutions for customers. It tickles your brain. No call is the same and I prefer it that way. 
 

“It’s an upskill, which means more money, and the flexible hours system is good as I have a busy life outside of work with my band and church.” 

 
EE Recruiter Manpreet says: “Ingeus has been an important part of us expanding our social outreach into the community, looking at putting jobseekers that are economically inactive into sustainable employment.  

 
“Ingeus, and Employer Account Manager James in particular, have been great at supporting us to reach candidates who in other circumstances thought they wouldn’t have the required skills or qualifications to work at EE. 

 
“However, with the exposure and guidance that Ingeus is able to provide, we’re able to break those barriers and make our roles and opportunities as accessible as they can be to potential future employees.” 

 
James says: “Manpreet and his team have been great to work alongside. Our relationship with EE is based on a shared ambition to support people back into worthwhile work with all the advantages that brings: a regular income, a structure to their lives and the chance to grow a career with a major business. It’s potentially life-changing for them.” 

 
The success of the scheme is demonstrated by the fact EE has expanded it with other local employability organisations to offer the opportunity to even more jobseekers. 

Partner with Ingeus to access pre-vetted candidates, streamline recruitment, and make a lasting impact.