Sefton@Work, which offers free advice to job seekers and employers, hosted an awards ceremony last week to recognise and celebrate local companies that have actively participated in and supported the Council service, and contributed to social value in Sefton.

Hosted in the recently opened Sefton@Work Bootle Strand premises, over 90 people attended the event. The awards recognised the range of positive contributions from businesses, such as mentorship schemes, inclusive and accessible recruitment, and providing training opportunities.

Cllr Paulette Lappin, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economy and Skills who attended the event, said: “The event was a brilliant opportunity to recognise the incredible work done by the Sefton@Work team and the range of local businesses that have supported residents with training, education, and employment.  

“Events like this are key to the Council’s vision for The Strand as the heart of the town’s community, making it a place where people can still shop, but also find vital services like Sefton@Work who provide opportunities for networking, advice, and professional development.”

A spokesperson from Home Bargains said: "We’re truly honoured to be recognised as ‘Employer of the Year’ at the Sefton@Work STAR Employer Awards. The event was a fantastic celebration, and it was inspiring to be among so many dedicated organisations making a difference in the community.

“At Home Bargains, we’re proud to work closely with Sefton@Work, creating employment opportunities locally. This recognition reflects our commitment to supporting Sefton, and we look forward to building on this partnership in the future."

Sefton@Work provides free recruitment services for local employers, which includes advertising vacancies, managing applications, and pre-screening applicants. Businesses get a free, bespoke recruitment service via the Employer Liaison Team.

The team also offers free, confidential, impartial advice and guidance to Sefton residents over 16 years of age on all aspects of jobs search, education, training, including self-employment. This can include bespoke back to work support including travel passes and clothing.

People can find further information on the service at www.seftonatwork.net, or by emailing seftonatwork.info@sefton.gov.uk. Individuals can call Sefton@Work on 0151 934 2610 while employers should call 0151 934 2648.

The full award list can be found below:

Employer of The Year - "This award reflects this employer’s consistent commitment to creating opportunities and fostering a positive work environment. They’ve set a high standard for other employers across Sefton recruiting more Sefton@Work clients than any other this year."

Home Bargains – Ryan Docherty

Outstanding Support in Overcoming Barriers – “This person and department have had a real impact on breaking down barriers, helping our more vulnerable Sefton@Work clients succeed, and making it possible for people to access opportunities they may have otherwise missed.”

Green Sefton - Stephen Howe

Long-Term Partnership - "Our long-standing partnership with this organisation demonstrates the strength of collaboration. Recruiting and partnering with us for nearly 20 years, their continued support has made such a meaningful difference to our clients and in the Sefton community."

Fun4Kidz – Debbie Stephens

Mentorship Excellence Award - "The approach of this department to mentoring has helped so many Sefton@Work clients grow and develop in their careers. And this individual’s commitment to guiding and supporting our clients has been truly commendable."

Sefton Catering Services, Rowan Park - Rachael Stafford

Rising Star Employer - "This award acknowledges the strides this large security and facilities management employer has made. By providing employment opportunities to our client, they’ve shown that investing in their team and in the Sefton community creates a strong foundation for growth and future success."

Carlisle Support Services – Jamie Jones

Exemplary Health and Wellbeing Support - "This manager’s dedication to promoting health and wellbeing goes far beyond the ordinary. By providing a paid café work placement to our client, and offering patience and unwavering support, they enabled them to not only overcome their fears but also thrive and grow in ways they couldn’t have imagined. This recognition is a testament to their commitment to making a real difference in the lives of those they work with."

Terri Cashmore

Training and Development Excellence - "This organisation’s commitment to training and development goes beyond the standard approach. Delivering construction skills training to some of our most challenging and reluctant clients, their ability to engage them speaks volumes about the quality of their training. The fact that our clients return day after day, not because they have to, but because they want to, is a testament to the positive impact they’re having. They’ve shown that even in the toughest situations, with the right approach, people can be motivated to grow and succeed."

IMAC Regeneration – Ian McDonough

Best New Partnership - "In a short time, this incoming employer to Sefton has proven to be more than just a great partner – they’ve shown real dedication to giving people opportunities, even when the road isn’t always smooth. Working with us to source their new workforce they have continued to invest in our clients, many of whom face significant barriers. They value potential, and their willingness to give people a chance, regardless of the challenges, shows a real commitment to supporting individuals and building a workforce of local talent. We look forward to seeing how this partnership continues to grow and make a difference."

Dhamecha – Naren Chotai

Caring Business Advocate - "This organisations advocacy and efforts for Sefton’s Care Experienced young people has been admirable. They’ve shown that success and compassion can go hand in hand, making a positive impact on Sefton’s Caring Business Charter, our care experienced, and in turn, the wider Sefton community."

New Directions - Adam Drury

Champion of Inclusive Recruitment Practices - “This employer and the manager’s commitment to inclusivity has been truly impactful. They’ve shown exceptional patience and support for our clients, ensuring that individuals facing barriers receive the guidance and opportunity they need to succeed. Your approach demonstrates that true inclusivity is about more than just numbers – it’s about creating an environment where everyone has a real chance to thrive."

Peacocks, Bootle Strand - Matt Lewis