Nurturing employees and organisations in the third sector

Work.Life.Highland has supported ILM Highland through paid placements of a number of members of staff.

ILM Highland supports communities through home improvement services, providing free access to specialist tradespeople and advisers to the elderly and those living with a disability – giving them a greater sense of freedom to make homecare decisions that will have a positive impact on their day-to-day lives. ILM Highland also operates an electrical retail shop and electrical recycling service.

As a social enterprise, ILM Highland was eligible to receive third sector paid placements through Work.Life.Highland.

“The benefits to ILM Highland having these third sector paid placements are enormously helpful to us as a company,” explains head of operations, Kenny Horsfield.

“Not only does it meet our aims of supporting paid employment to local people in need of work, but the placements will also make a positive contribution to our teams and services through recycling electricals, assisting with electrical shop sales, and supporting general finance and administration. We also believe that the placements will of course provide great benefit to the employees themselves in learning new skills, gaining relevant and current work experience for future employment, as well as achieving fulfilment in delivering a role which earns them an income.

“Times are difficult enough these days for both employers and those who are seeking work, more so for the younger generation who have gone through covid and now the cost-of-living crisis has taken its toll on their ability to seek permanent employment.”

ILM Highland has been committed for almost 30 years in supporting people back into a working environment. This enables the company to deliver its charitable services providing home improvements to the elderly and disabled residents throughout the Highlands to live at home independently for longer and more safely.

With Work.Life.Highland providing the much-needed funding, the third sector placements have brought a fresh perspective, a strong sense of purpose, and a genuine dedication to making a positive impact to the company. Their presence has contributed to ILM Highland’s overall success in various ways.

Diversity of perspectives:

The introduction of third sector paid placements has significantly broadened the diversity of perspectives within the team. Their unique experiences and backgrounds have brought fresh ideas and creative solutions to the table, stimulating innovative thinking across all departments.

Increased efficiency and productivity:

Those on the placements have proven to be highly motivated and eager to contribute. Their enthusiasm and dedication have had a positive impact on team dynamics, leading to increased productivity and efficiency in various projects and tasks.

Enhanced social responsibility:

Hosting funded third sector paid placements aligns with ILM Highland’s commitment to corporate social responsibility. It demonstrates a genuine dedication to supporting initiatives that promote positive social change and community development.

Skill development and knowledge transfer:

The placements have also served as a source of knowledge transfer. They bring with them their modern technical expertise, allowing for the exchange of valuable skills and insights that have benefited both the existing team and the placements themselves.

Positive impact on company culture:

The presence of these placements has fostered a culture of social awareness, compassion, and a shared commitment to making a difference. It has inspired the existing team members to become more engaged in charitable and community-driven activities.

Long-term value and potential for growth:

Investing in funded third sector placements not only brings short-term benefits, but it also holds long-term potential. By providing opportunities for these individuals to develop their skills and contribute meaningfully, the company is potentially nurturing future leaders who will go on to make significant contributions to the industry.

“I wholeheartedly endorse the practice of hosting funded third sector paid placements within our organisation. Their presence has been instrumental in fostering a more diverse, socially responsible, and innovative work environment. I believe that continuing to support initiatives like this will not only benefit our company but also contribute to the greater good of society as a whole,” Kenny concludes.

If your organisation could benefit from third sector paid placements or other support from Work.Life.Highland, get in touch with the team to discuss your needs.