One of our business members, Hinckley and Rugby Building Society (HRBS) invited a representative from the Leicestershire Cares team to come and speak to their staff, in support of their Vulnerability Champion Training. Ross, our Altogether Now Project Manager, delivered a thought-provoking presentation, drawing on his extensive experience of working with young people who face a wide range of vulnerabilities. He offered practical advice and tips for the HRBS team to help them to feel more confident and prepared when engaging with vulnerable customers in their branches.
Ross was joined by Jack, a participant from our Altogether Now project, who shared his own lived experience of navigating the world of work, education, and services such as building societies. Jack spoke with honesty and courage in front of a room full of professionals, and we’re incredibly proud of the brilliant job he did representing the voice of young people.
I would say that I felt like I was making myself heard to others that do a lot of hard work every day and that it felt sort of empowering that I was someone who can make a difference
Jack - Altogether Now Participant
The staff attending the training remained engaged throughout the day and asked Ross and Jack multiple questions following the presentation, which emphasised how serious they were about becoming better equipped to support vulnerable people accessing their services. There was another brilliant speaker on the day who focused on working with people with dementia and spreading awareness across the team.
It was fantastic to see HRBS take the time to ensure their staff are properly trained and empowered to support people who may be experiencing traits of vulnerability. Roleplay activities on the day allowed the team to put their learning into practice and led to further discussion and advice sharing. The organisation has clearly invested significant time and care into creating a more inclusive service, including producing a Vulnerable Customer Handbook to be utilised by staff across their sites.
The presentation you both did was everything I had hoped it would be and more. I really valued the care, compassion and empathy you displayed and greatly admired Jack’s confidence and clarity of message. He is a really talented young man, and I hope he finds employment very soon; he deserves an opportunity.
Danny Cranie - Chief Customer Officer - Hinckley & Rugby Building Society
It was great that your session prompted so many questions, and your answers have certainly helped upskill our team’s knowledge levels.
We already have a great relationship between H&R and Leicestershire Cares, yesterday was another very positive step and I look forward to continuing to strengthen our partnership moving forward by following through on the ideas we discussed yesterday.
Thanks very much to both of you for adding real value to our Academy.
This work is a testament to the commitment and passion of everyone at HRBS involved in developing and delivering the training. We were proud to play our part, and we hope other businesses are inspired to follow this example.
Leicestershire Cares stands ready to support employers and organisations with guidance, training, and the lived experience of the young people we work with, helping to build a fairer, more compassionate community for all.
For more information on this kind of business support, contact ross@leicestershirecares.co.uk.