Supporting Sustainable Employment Through Socially Responsible Recruitment
March 11, 2026Posted by:
Matthew’s journey back into work shows how socially responsible recruitment can make a real difference when people are given fair access, the right support, and time to succeed.
Matthew is autistic, has a learning disability, and a physical condition that affects his mobility. These factors have made it harder for him to find work, despite having strong experience and a proven work ethic. Before Covid, Matthew had spent over 20 years with the same employer in a warehousing role, with an excellent attendance record. Losing that job was a significant setback, and returning to the labour market was not straightforward.
After being referred by Jobcentre Plus, to Hiyed CIC (a local supported employment service) they assisted Matthew to complete a warehouse course and a period of temporary paid work in a local factory to rebuild his confidence and skills. While this helped, he still faced barriers securing a long-term role. He was then referred by Hiyed CIC through to the Social Recruitment Framework (SRF) at PeoplePlus to support him into sustainable employment.
Smart Solutions in Hartlepool was identified as a suitable employer. Through the SRF, the recruitment process was adjusted to make it accessible and supportive. Matthew was offered a telephone interview, supported by a Job Coach from Hiyed CIC, and the interview questions were shared in advance so he could prepare and feel more confident.
Following the interview, Matthew was invited in for an induction and a tour of the Biffa site where he would be working. He attended with his Job Coach, with support in place around travel to remove practical barriers. This helped Matthew understand the role and settle into the workplace environment before starting.
Matthew began work with continued support via Hiyed CIC who assisted with his DWP Access to Work application. As Matthew is vulnerable on public transport and has elderly parents, the distance to work was a potential barrier. Access to Work funding provided taxis to help with travelling to work.
During his first week, he received on-site support at the start of each shift from Smart Solutions and Hiyed CIC colleagues. In his second week, he was buddied with other team members on the production line, allowing him to build relationships and confidence while still having the right support in place.
Simple, reasonable adjustments were made to support Matthew in his role. These adjustments were practical and proportionate, helping him to work safely and confidently while contributing fully as part of the team.
Tracy Fee, Director of Hiyed CIC, stated
"This was a great example of true collaboration between partners who share values to place the person at the centre and work together to achieve a great outcome."
Matthew’s father, Clive, stated
"We felt we had exhausted all avenues for Matthew and were losing hope before we met the staff from Hiyed CIC who worked tirelessly to enable him to achieve paid long-term employment, alongside PeoplePlus and the SRF. Nothing was too small an ask and no barrier was too large for them to help us overcome."
Karla Conlan, National Accounts & Social Impact Manager at Smart Solutions stated
“Working in partnership with PeoplePlus and the SRF has allowed us to reach people who may otherwise face significant barriers to employment. By connecting individuals with real opportunities, we’re not just filling vacancies, we’re helping people build confidence, gain experience, and take meaningful steps back into work.”
For Smart Solutions, this approach supported a successful and sustainable hire. For Matthew, it meant overcoming significant barriers to return to work in a role where he feels supported and valued. More broadly, it shows how social value is delivered through action – by removing obstacles, sharing responsibility, and focusing on long-term employment outcomes.
This is socially responsible recruitment in practice: matching the right person to the right role, with support shaped around real needs, not assumptions.
March 11, 2026Posted by:
