Inclusive Recruitment in Action: A Strong Start to 2026 for the Social Recruitment Framework
February 27, 2026Posted by:
The Social Recruitment Framework (SRF) has made a powerful start to 2026, delivering measurable impact for employers, training providers and individuals across the country.
So far this year:
- Over 1,000 individuals have been supported and introduced to employers
- Over 200 people already started work
These outcomes reflect structured collaboration between employers, training providers and employability services, all working together to create inclusive recruitment pathways that deliver both commercial value and social impact.
What is the Social Recruitment Framework?
We help people who don’t have a job.
We match people who are unemployed or face barriers with employers who need staff.
This service is free.
For employers, this means stronger workforce pipelines and lower recruitment costs.
For training providers, it means clearer and easier progression routes.
For individuals, it means real access to real opportunity.
Employer Engagement and Network Activity
Behind the headline figures sits significant employer and partner engagement.
The SRF team has been meeting with employers and training providers across the country to explore workforce challenges, skills gaps and inclusive hiring solutions.
So far just this year activity has included:
Attending the SRAG summit at NESCOT College and engaging directly with employers committed to improving access to opportunity. They also participated in carousel sessions with attendees, discussing practical approaches to inclusive recruitment.
Meeting with AKG, one of our valued partners, to introduce an employer directly to candidates through the partner network, supporting progression and employment outcomes.
Hosting an SRF webinar focused on how inclusive recruitment can drive meaningful social value for organisations and communities.
The session demonstrated how the SRF integrates employability, skills development and employer support into one simple, structured approach. Attendees heard practical insight from Karla Conlan at Smart Solutions, who shared her experience of building a successful working partnership through SRF - reinforcing how collaborative recruitment models can deliver sustainable outcomes for both businesses and candidates.
Looking Ahead
Recruitment challenges remain across many sectors, yet untapped talent continues to exist within local communities.
The SRF bridges that gap - creating structured pathways into work that benefit individuals, employers, training providers, and the wider economy.
When social recruitment is done well, hiring becomes easier, unemployed people move into meaningful work, and more individuals stay and grow in their roles. That is the tangible impact of getting recruitment right.
With over 200 people already starting work this year, and continued engagement nationwide, 2026 is set to build on this strong foundation.
Get Involved
If you are:
- An employer looking to gain access to talent with the right skills
- A training provider seeking clearer progression routes into employment for your candidates
We would welcome the opportunity to work with you through the SRF.
To find out more or discuss how SRF can support your organisation, please email [email protected]
February 27, 2026Posted by:
