When the Energise Programme in partnership with Shell UK launched as a pilot in 2023, the ambition was straightforward: help people facing real barriers to employment find not just a job, but a sustainable future.
Since then, over 1,000 people have done exactly that, with 65% of them have remained in work for more than 26 weeks. It’s a milestone worth celebrating, and one that means far more than the number suggests.
We sat down with our Programme Manager to reflect on the journey, the people behind the figures, and why this is just the beginning.
More than a number
When we asked our Senior Operations Manager, Alex what stands out most about reaching 1,000 people into jobs the answer was immediate: the people.
“Every job outcome represents someone who has overcome challenges, built their confidence, and taken a significant step forward in their life,” he says.
“What makes this particularly meaningful is that many of the people we support have faced significant challenges on their journey to employment. Supporting more than 1,000 people into sustainable jobs means more than 1,000 people have increased their confidence, improved their financial stability, and taken important steps towards achieving their goals.”
Since launch, 3,669 people have completed Energise’s four-week workshop programme, a figure that reflects not just the scale of what’s been built, but the dedication of the teams delivering it.
The London team alone has supported 1,688 people through workshops and 531 into sustained employment.
Breaking down the barriers
The people who come to Energise arrive with different stories and different challenges. Some have been out of work for a long time. Others are lacking confidence, qualifications, or simply a clear sense of where to start. Some face financial barriers, language challenges, or no experience in the industries where jobs are being created.
What Energise does is meet people where they are. Through group workshops, one-to-one coaching and practical support, including help with the costs of training, travel, licences and PPE. The programme helps participants understand their strengths, build their confidence, and start to see a future they perhaps hadn’t considered possible.
“One of the biggest changes we see is confidence,” our Programme Manager explains. “Participants tell us that employment has improved not only their financial situation, but also their wellbeing, independence and aspirations. For many, securing a job is just the beginning as they start to see new opportunities, set bigger goals, and realise they are capable of achieving far more than they initially thought possible.”
A pathway into the clean energy economy
One of the things that sets Energise apart is its focus on the clean energy and green economy sectors, industries that are growing fast and need motivated, skilled people to help them get there.
For many participants, these industries simply weren’t on their radar. Through the programme, they learn about the range of roles available in retrofit, renewable energy, infrastructure and sustainability, and how their existing skills translate into these spaces. It opens doors that participants didn’t know existed, while helping employers address real skills shortages in sectors that matter for the UK’s future.
“Connecting people to growing industries ensures that participants are not just finding jobs today but building careers that can continue to develop and thrive in the future,” he says.
Support that doesn’t stop at the job offer
Getting someone into work is one thing. Keeping them there is another and it’s where Energise’s model really stands out. Participants receive up to six months of dedicated one-to-one coaching after starting work, giving them support through the early weeks and months of a new role when it’s needed most.
That ongoing investment is reflected in the outcomes. With 65% of people placed into work still employed after 26 weeks, Energise is delivering something genuinely sustainable not just ticking a box.
“Starting a new job can be daunting, particularly for individuals who have been out of work for some time or are entering a new industry,” our Programme Manager says.
“Having continued support during those early weeks and months can make a significant difference to their confidence, wellbeing and ability to overcome any issues that arise. In work support is one of the reasons Energise delivers sustainable outcomes it recognises that securing a job is not the end of the journey, it’s the beginning of a new chapter.”
A message to anyone facing barriers right now
For anyone who recognises themselves in the challenges described above, our Programme Manager has a simple message.
“Never give up on yourself. Your current situation does not define your future. Everyone has strengths, talents and potential even if they haven’t discovered them yet. The most important thing is to keep taking that next step, no matter how small it seems. Believe in yourself, be open to support, and don’t be afraid to try something new. The right opportunity could be closer than you think.”
To find out more or get involved, visit Energise | Catch22