SCC, The Rigby Foundation, and Generation UK join forces to tackle employment barriers in the tech sector
A new charity partnership spearheaded by European technology solutions and services provider SCC is seeking to help job seekers into employment by boosting employability skills.
SCC and The Rigby Foundation, the charitable trust of SCC’s parent organisation Rigby Group, has partnered with Generation UK to empower job seekers through the delivery of dedicated employability training days.
The first training day, held at SCC’s UK headquarters in January, provided 21 learners with hands-on coaching, practical workshops, and personal insights from industry professionals – all aimed at breaking down barriers to employment in the technology sector.
Learners received expert guidance on job applications and interview techniques, while SCC volunteers shared their own career journeys, highlighting the challenges they overcame and the opportunities available within the industry.
Generation UK is the UK arm of the global not-for-profit focused on upskilling individuals facing employment challenges. Its mission is to prepare people for employment in various sectors.
Victoria Brown, Head of Fundraising at Generation UK, highlighted the impact of the initiative: “The day we spent with SCC was hugely insightful. We met so many inspiring staff who provided an open and honest look at their journeys into the tech sector and the hurdles they overcame. This was a great confidence boost for our learners, who are facing similar challenges themselves.”
For many attendees, the experience was transformational. One learner shared: “This was a lot more valuable than I expected – I feel much more prepared to apply for jobs now. The event put me at ease about interviews, especially meeting real employers in a relaxed setting.”
SCC’s Diversity & Inclusion team played a key role in the initiative, with colleagues from the company’s REACH (Race, Ethnicity, and Cultural Heritage) Network sharing their personal experiences of overcoming barriers in the workplace. Attendees also toured SCC Recyclea, gaining insight into sustainability in IT and alternative career pathways within the sector.
James Long, Talent Acquisition Business Partner at SCC, said: “This was one of the most rewarding days of my career. We set out to support these learners, but in doing so, we also gained so much – from fresh perspectives to the satisfaction of making a real difference. I can’t wait to run more of these sessions and continue helping people into fulfilling careers.”
Mandy Tregenna, People Experience Manager at SCC, added: “Even if we had helped just one person, we would have considered the day a success – but to support every learner in that room meant the world to us. The initiative was the first of its kind for SCC and The Rigby Foundation, and we can’t wait to partner with Generation UK again, and receive updated from job seekers we have supported.”
SCC has committed to running similar events in the future, expanding its support for people looking to develop the skills and confidence needed to start a career in the tech industry.
Sonia Chhatwal, Executive Director of The Rigby Foundation, commented: “With the UK’s digital skills shortage continuing to impact businesses, initiatives like this provide a vital bridge between job seekers and industry needs. At The Rigby Foundation, we believe in supporting long-term, sustainable opportunities for people looking to enter the workforce.
“Partnering with Generation UK and SCC has been a fantastic example of how businesses and charities can come together to create real impact. We’re excited to explore how we can expand this initiative in the future.”
SCC continues to invest in people and skills development, and is committed to fostering inclusive growth in the technology industry – ensuring more individuals, regardless of their background, can access life-changing career opportunities. For more information about SCC’s community initiatives, visit Sustainability at SCC