What is working particularly well | London Borough of Bexley

A number of strengths/areas that are working particularly well were identified during the assessment, which are detailed below.

The numbers in brackets refer to the element and criteria of the matrix Standard:

The rebranding of the various employability services as BBE and their move to the Economic Development and Skills directorate is viewed by staff as a success and has served to emphasise the organisation’s wider mission. Managers and staff described how they feel their service is part of wider council, London-wide and national initiatives and strategies to upskill the most disadvantaged residents and promote a levelling up agenda. Staff embrace themes such as ‘Standing up for Bexley’ and ‘A fairer Bexley’, enabling them to see their own work in a wider context. In addition, advisers use their position at the heart of the local authority to broker relationships both to reach clients and signpost them to wider services across the borough. (1.1, 4.7)

Throughout the assessment staff demonstrated clearly how they get to know their clients and their needs, enabling them to deliver a personalised IAG service. Staff and clients also made a compelling case for ‘whole person’ support as the key to enabling clients to progress in their lives and achieve their goals. Clients described being referred to BBE for employability support, but with a range of health and other issues, ranging from alcoholism, tinnitus and heart disease through to obtaining a bus pass, for all of which they had been supported by their advisers. Work and Health clients particularly praised the support of health key workers, but it was clear that across programmes all advisers identify clients’ often complex needs and deliver holistic IAG to remove barriers and empower clients. (2.4, 4.2)

Since the last assessment, BBE has increased its focus on wellbeing, reflecting the organisation’s aim to develop the service in line with increased client demand for wellbeing support. A particularly innovative development is the new ‘Refilling the Well’ programme, developed in conjunction with a wellbeing expert, which covers key issues to empower clients to overcome their barriers and make them work ready. Clients praised coverage of topics such as ‘Fostering a growth mindset’ and ‘Break free from the overwhelm’ as being highly relevant to their lives and personal development needs. Staff described the visible positive impact on attendees of the programme, and how they will continue to innovate based on emerging client needs. (1.4, 7.1, 7.2)

Employers described a holistic support service delivered by Bexley Twofold both to clients and to the employers themselves, with many having little prior experience of working with the learning disabled. Employers described support workers who are passionate about their work and their clients, and who deliver and adapt their service, based on both client and employer need, in a sustainable way with support gradually withdrawn as the new working relationship develops. Employers also recognise and are proud of the social value created by the Twofold programme, providing a benefit to society well beyond the hours worked by the client. (1.2, 2.7, 2.8)

Standard Report V5

Version Dated: 31 May 2023

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The matrix Standard is delivered by The Growth Company on behalf of the Department for Education.

The matrix Standard accreditation assessment report