SPAR International Presents A.F. Blakemore with Special Recognition Award

December 04, 2019

A.F. Blakemore has been presented with a Special Recognition award by SPAR International for the contribution it has made to the community through its Branching Out education programme.

SPAR International Managing Director Tobias Wasmuht handed over the award to A.F. Blakemore HR Business Partner Liz Blakemore at the SPAR International Responsible Retailing Forum & SPAR International Partnership Forum gala dinner at the end of November. 

A.F. Blakemore’s Branching Out programme inspires young people to enter the world of work by improving their employability skills and supporting the recruitment and development of future talent.

It works with young people across a range of employability interventions including enterprise events, practice interviews, CV writing workshops, study tours and mentoring sessions.

The programme supports young people in developing their employability skills and also provides employment opportunities within the business itself.

Liz commented: “A.F. Blakemore is delighted to be recognised internationally for its commitment to making a difference in local communities.

“Transforming the lives of young people and providing them with the skills to prepare them for the world of work is why Branching Out exists.

“However, the programme’s success could not have been achieved without the continuous support and passion of our colleagues who have worked tirelessly to bring it to life.”

A.F. Blakemore’s Branching Out programme was also recognised with a national award in July this year at the prestigious Responsible Business Awards, run by Business in the Community.

The company was named the overall winner in the Education Partnerships category at a gala dinner held at the Royal Albert Hall in London, with nearly 1,000 business leaders and influencers in attendance. 

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